When you’re struggling with the death of a loved one, it can be challenging trying to turn your attention to something like probate. Not only are you not prepared to discuss it, but many clients want to avoid the process entirely because they’ve heard it can be confusing, complicated, drawn-out, and emotionally draining for everyone involved.
While probate isn’t always necessary, it is often required or recommended. How these proceedings play out depends on your unique situation. Hence, it’s better to understand what probate is and consult with an attorney to determine your next steps.
What is probate, exactly?
Probate law and representation involves the formal legal process of administering an estate after the death of a loved one. Their estate can include everything from money and physical property to assets and other items of value, and a court’s goal is to determine the rightful owner and legally transfer those assets to that person’s family members or beneficiaries.
The probate process can sometimes get complicated if there isn’t a will in place. However, just because there is a will doesn’t mean you can avoid the process altogether.
Probate courts deal with many different issues, including:
- Probating an existing will
- Appointing an executor or administrator
- Approving an inventory of the estate assets
- Confirming the heirs of a decedent
- Creating an estate administration
Why is a will important?
Having a carefully-crafted will in place can make the probate process easier. Rather than being forced to defer to state law to determine how everything is distributed. The court can simply refer to the will to determine how to proceed.
By leaving behind a will, you can specify:
- How your assets should be distributed
- Who gets what and how much
- Details for final arrangements
- Who should care for your minor children and pets
- Who is in charge (executor) of making sure all of this happens
The attorneys at Christman | Daniell Attorneys believe that no one should go through the probate process alone. Our job is to guide you through that process and do all the heavy lifting so that you don’t have to. We have an unwavering commitment to helping our clients at each stage of the process.
Please call Christman | Daniell Attorneys for your legal needs today!
The material on this website and in this or any blog article we publish are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. The attorneys at Christman | Daniell Attorneys believe in tailoring legal advice and solutions to your own personal circumstances.
We have an unwavering commitment to helping our clients at each stage of their legal situation.