Probate of Will

Probate is the legal process of settling a person's matters after their death. Basically, probate is the process wherein all claims and debts of the deceased are paid, and the remaining property of the deceased is distributed to the heirs. Probate can be very complicated and overwhelming without a knowledgeable, experienced attorney.

If a person dies with a will, the decedent is said to be testate. If a person dies without a will, the decedent is said to be intestate. The person who handles the decedents affairs is called the personal representative; more specifically, the personal representative is called the executor/executrix if the decendent is testate, and the administrator/administratrix if the decedent is intestate. The personal representative works closely with the attorney in marshalling, or finding, all of the decedent's assets and liabilities, pays legitimate claims, and distributes the remaining assets to the decedent's heirs.

A will contest exists when someone challenges the validity of a will. The majority of will contests are based on an invalid will, undue influence, forgery/fraud, or lack of testamentary capacity.

Hiring a competent probate attorney can relieve much stress and anxiety after the loss of a loved one. The administration of an estate can be a long and cumbersome task; an experienced lawyer can streamline the process, reducing frustration and discomfort for the client.

Hire a lawyer who understands probate practice and has experience handling complex probate matters. We have over 19 years representing clients in probate matters.