why would you need a probate attorney

by Kasandra Tremblay 9 min read

  • Navigating an unfamiliar legal system is challenging. Most people are unfamiliar with the legal system in general. ...
  • You may need to understand complex laws. ...
  • A probate lawyer will save you time. ...
  • Avoiding challenges. ...
  • Mistakes can cost the estate valuable assets. ...

A probate attorney can accomplish many things to settle an estate and assist the Executor and beneficiaries, including: Collecting life insurance policy proceeds. Determining and paying inheritance taxes. Figuring out and paying estate and income taxes that may be due.

Full Answer

What are the main duties of a probate attorney?

Why You Need a Probate Attorney It may be tempting to think you can handle your estate without consulting with an experienced Florida probate lawyer. A respected probate attorney can help the testator prepare the right legal documents to save on taxes, minimize attacks against your will, and maximize the amount you have available for your family and loved ones.

How do I choose the best probate attorney?

Sep 01, 2020 · A probate lawyer can assist with “executing” or settling the estate. Vital matters, such as notifying all of the beneficiaries (including estranged family members) of …

What is a probate lawyer and what do they do?

A probate attorney is a state-licensed lawyer who can help the Executor of a Will (if one was appointed) or the beneficiaries of an estate get through probate as they work to settle an estate. Their services could typically include everything from finding and inventorying assets of the estate, to understanding and paying all the debts the estate may have, to distributing and …

How to find a good probate attorney?

A probate attorney will also help you take possession of the deceased person’s property and provide expert advice regarding estate management. Assets such as bank accounts, securities accounts, deeds to real estate properties, jewelry and other assets will need to be inventoried and appraisement during the probate process.

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What is a Probate Attorney

A probate attorney is a state-licensed lawyer who can help the Executor of a Will (if one was appointed) or the beneficiaries of an estate get through probate as they work to settle an estate.

What Does a Probate Attorney Do?

Also known as a probate lawyer, probate attorneys are hired to help settle an estate. After the death of a loved one, their Estate Plan dictates the next steps. If they have a Will, probate will be necessary. Trusts won’t go through probate, which can sometimes make the process a bit less complicated and much more private.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Probate?

Whether or not you need a probate lawyer will depend on multiple factors and scenarios. You’ll want to consider things like:

Questions to Ask a Probate Attorney

If you do end up using a probate attorney, there are a few things you should know before retaining one. Asking questions up front will ensure there are no (costly) surprises along the way. Use the following list to help you find an attorney who will be the right fit for your exact needs.

You Need an Experienced Probate Professional

Probate is a tedious court process that requires submitting documents, filing notices, and informing various government agencies of scheduled hearings. There may also be moments where a probate judge or a court representative will ask to review documents, which will leave you scurrying to and from the courts without much notice or time.

Difficulties within the Probate court

Some estates can present a straightforward probate process where clear instructions, copies of the forms, and anything else you might need, come in a neat bow. However, for other estates where complications both big and small arise, having an experienced probate attorney on the job will be indispensable.

How Elder Law Services of California Can Help

A probate attorney will also help you take possession of the deceased person’s property and provide expert advice regarding estate management. Assets such as bank accounts, securities accounts, deeds to real estate properties, jewelry and other assets will need to be inventoried and appraisement during the probate process.

How to Work with a Probate Attorney

Hiring a probate attorney will only provide you with the peace of mind that your family’s affairs are being handled in the proper and most efficient manner possible. If you are searching for a probate attorney, give us a call at Elder Law Services of California to talk with one of our expert lawyers.

What is Probate?

Probate is the judicial process of administering the estate of a person who has passed away. This process results in a deceased person’s assets to be properly identified, valued, and redistributed to his beneficiaries.

The Role of a Probate Attorney

A probate lawyer is a state-licensed attorney who helps the beneficiaries with the distribution of an estate and settling the affairs of the decedent. He may also help with the estate planning such as drafting of wills or giving advice on powers of attorney.

Do you Need a Probate Lawyer?

Not every probate requires hiring an attorney. You can avoid hiring a probate lawyer in the following circumstances:

5 Reasons for Hiring a Probate Lawyer

The following are our top five reasons why you need to hire a probate lawyer.

Reach Out to Us

Lacey Lyons is a leading law firm in Brevard County, committed to providing exceptional probate services. We ensure that the whole process is carried out in a timely and efficient manner. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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