Although you are not required by law to hire a probate attorney, the process is often complicated and navigating it without legal guidance can ultimately cost you more than you think it may save. There are many circumstances in which it is best to hire a probate attorney. For example, if there are any disputes between the beneficiaries of a decedent’s estate or if there are complex tax matters involved, an experienced attorney will be essential.
What Can a Probate Attorney Do?
Primarily, a probate attorney will provide advice regarding estate administration, though the role may include more or less duties depending on the specific circumstances of the decedent’s estate and whether or not there is a viable will.
Below are some of the matters a probate attorney may assist you with:
- Settling the decedent’s outstanding debts
- Transferring real estate and other important assets to the decedent’s beneficiaries
- Resolving tax-related matters
- Collecting the proceeds from the decedent’s life insurance policies
- Preparing and filing the paperwork required by probate court
If your loved one died with a will, they likely named an executor who will be in charge of managing the estate. However, if the decedent does not have a will and did not name an executor of the estate, the court will have to appoint one. Under both circumstances, the estate will likely have to go through probate.
How long the probate process takes will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the estate, if there are any problems with the will, if there are any debts or taxes that need to be settled, and the number of beneficiaries.
Reach Out to Our Experienced Probate Team to Discuss the Details of Your Case Today!
If your loved one passed away and the estate must now go through the probate process, you should reach out to the estate planning team at Drexler Law for the knowledgeable legal guidance you need to overcome the obstacles you may face. With more than 100 years of collective experience, you can trust that our team can provide the advice you need to navigate your case as smoothly as possible.
Call our law office today at (719) 259-0050 to set up a case evaluation with one of our esteemed probate attorneys to get started and learn more about what we can do for you.
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