Estate Administration aka “Probate”
When someone passes away, Estate Administration - also known as “Estate Settlement” or “Probate” - refers to the legal process through which a deceased person's assets are gathered, managed, and distributed. This is the flip side of the coin to estate planning. The goal of this process is to ensure that the interests of all parties involved are properly respected. Understanding the possible routes for Estate Administration can be vital in planning how you would like things to proceed, when you are no longer here to take such action, and will control how those who are involved in the probate process may proceed.
This area of law can be complex, and it is can be helpful to seek the guidance of an attorney when navigating the process. Our firm can provide invaluable assistance in:
Estate Planning: When an individual would like to establish how their assets and debts should be handled upon their passing, there are options regarding how to proceed.
Probate Administration: When someone dies, there may be steps to be taken to ensure compliance with legal requirements, depending on what plans were established while they were alive.
Litigation: When there is a disagreement - such as whether a Will is valid or how assets should pass - the Court may be called to assess the appropriate course of action.
Losing a loved one is never easy, and understanding the probate process can help individuals navigate this complex area of law and protect their assets and interests. If you have concerns about how to approach handling an estate, we would be glad to speak with you about your options.