Probate
Administration
Probate
Administration begins with the process whereby a probate court
must approve and oversee the admission of a Will to probate, appointment
of a Personal Representative (in some states called an "Executor"
or "Executrix"), the administration of estate assets,
payment of debts, the final distribution to heirs and the final
discharge of the Personal Representative. The Personal Representatives
responsibilities include locating all the estate assets, publishing
a notice to creditors inviting them to file claims, managing and
protecting assets, investing securities, paying debts and making
distributions to the heirs as directed by the Will. We are
called upon frequently by heirs to provide the needed legal and
financial assistance
to probate, administer and close an estate of a deceased loved
one.
Trust
Administration
Trust
Administration is the process whereby a trust within a Will (Testamentary
Trust) or a Living Trust and its provisions are carried out in
accordance with the directives in the trust. This process
includes the filing for a Tax Identification Number with the IRS,
processing the substitution and appointment of Successor Trustee(s),
assisting with required paperwork of financial institutions,
assisting the Successor Trustee(s) with investments, advising
the Successor Trustee(s) as to their fiduciary responsibilities
and limitations.
Probate and Trust Litigation
Probate
and Trust Administration may require that we undertake defense
of claims of creditors as well a Will contest that may be
brought against the estate and its Personal Representative.
We frequently represent Trustee(s) and Beneficiaries in litigation
over interpretation of Trust language. We have extensive experience
defending uninsured estates against wrongful death and personal
injury cases. When necessary we will sue on behalf of an estate
or trust to recover of damages or to seek a declaration of rights.
The outcome of such litigation usually involves substantial sums
of money.
Should
you or a family member require the Estate Planning, Probate or
Trust Administration services we offer please contact us.
We will be glad to provide you with our free booklet entitled
"A Guide for Administering the Revocable Living Trust". Simply email us or call us for these free
materials.
