Probate attorneys are state-licensed lawyers who help the executor of a will of an estate get through probate as they work to settle an estate.
They assist them as much or as little as they need as they go through the probate process.
Some of their duties include identifying all the decedent’s assets, preparing and filing documents with the probate court.
Collecting life insurance, paying off the decedent’s debts and bills, obtaining evaluations for the deceased’s real estate. Identifying and paying estate, income, and inheritance taxes, and transferring the asset ownership into the beneficiaries’ names.
What is the role of a probate lawyer?
A probate attorney is a state-licensed lawyer who helps 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.
They assist them as much or as little as they need as they go through the probate process.
Probate lawyers help non-lawyer clients fulfill their role as administrators, personal representatives, or executors of estates.
They assist them as much or as little as they need as they go through the probate process.
1.Identifying all the decedent’s assets.
2.Preparing and filing documents with the probate court.
3.Collecting life insurance.
4.Paying off the decedent’s debts and bills.
5.Obtaining evaluations for the deceased’s real estate.
6.Identifying and paying estate, income, and inheritance taxes.
7.Transferring the asset ownership into the beneficiaries’ names.
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Do I need a probate lawyer?
A probate lawyer is not required by law, but it may be in your best interest to hire one depending on the size and complexity of the estate.
A probate lawyer can help speed up the probate process, find beneficiaries, secure assets, contact creditors, pay taxes, and make the final distribution.
Some situations that may require a probate lawyer are:
1.The decedent owned real estate
2.Unusual or substantial assets such as businesses, mineral rights, royalties and investments.
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Can I do my own probate without a lawyer?
Yes, you can do your own probate without a solicitor if you are the executor of the will and feel comfortable handling the process yourself.
However, it’s important to note that probate can be a complex process.
If you’re not familiar with it, it may be in your best interest to hire a solicitor to help you through the process .
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Summary
A probate attorney is a state-licensed lawyer who helps 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.