Probate and Administration

 

Probate is the legal process by which an estate is administered.  A person who dies without a Will dies intestate and state law establishes the order of property distribution, and federal and state law determine the tax liability, regardless of decedent's intent.

 

When a person leaves a Will, such is presented to the Surrogate's Court for authentication. If there is no named Executor, or the individual named is unable or unwilling to qualify, the court will appoint an Administrator to administer the estate.  As the Attorney I represent beneficiaries and heirs at law in relation to Will contests, and Executors, Trustees, and Administrators in regard to their duties during Probate and Administration: defending them as necessary.

 

A Professional Estate Plan helps to insure an orderly and efficient administration of the estate, ultimately preserving as much of the estate as possible for your heirs and beneficiaries.  Lack of planning leads to unresolved issues and family discord, often resulting in threatened litigation, inevitably diminishing the value of the estate left for your heirs and beneficiaries.  Click Here! and set up an appointment to discuss the probate and administration process.