Practice 03 · Probate and estate administration
Probate lawyers who guide executors and families, step by step
Being named executor usually comes at the hardest possible time. We take you through each step: court filings, notices, debts, taxes, and finally distributing the estate, so the job gets done properly and you're not carrying it alone.
What we help with
Probate and estate administration matters we handle
- Opening probate and appointing an executor
- Small-estate and simplified procedures
- Inventory, appraisal, and notices to creditors
- Paying debts and filing final tax returns
- Selling or transferring real estate from an estate
- Trust administration for successor trustees
- Resolving disagreements between beneficiaries
How we approach it
What working on your probate and estate administration matter looks like
A clear map of the process
At the start you'll get a written outline of each step, the deadlines that apply, and what's needed from you, so you always know what's finished and what's next.
Protecting you as executor
An executor has legal duties to the estate and its beneficiaries. We make sure notices go out, debts are paid in the right order, and records are kept, which protects both the estate and you.
Keeping the family informed
Much of the friction in an estate comes from beneficiaries not knowing what's happening. Regular, plain updates keep disagreements from growing into disputes.
For your consultation
What to bring
Whatever you have is fine. Missing paperwork never stops a first conversation.
How a consultation works- The original will or trust, if you have it
- Several certified copies of the death certificate
- Recent statements for bank, retirement, and investment accounts
- Deeds, vehicle titles, and any recent bills or notices
Common questions
Probate and estate administration, answered plainly
General information only. The answer for your situation depends on your facts and your state’s law.
Does every estate have to go through probate?
No. Assets held in a trust, jointly owned with a right of survivorship, or passing by beneficiary designation usually transfer without probate. Many states also have simplified procedures for smaller estates.
How long does probate take?
A straightforward estate often takes several months to a year, partly because of the time creditors are given to make claims. Estates with real estate, tax questions, or disagreements can take longer.
Am I personally responsible for the estate's debts as executor?
Generally, no. Debts are paid from the estate, not from the executor's own money. But an executor who distributes assets before debts and taxes are dealt with can face personal liability, which is one reason to have guidance through the process.
Next step
Talk to a probate and estate administration attorney about your situation.
Tell us briefly what's happening and we'll arrange a consultation. We reply within [RESPONSE TIME].