Individuals accrue a variety of assets that become a part of their estate, which they eventually leave behind upon their passing.
A probate lawyer can help ensure that an individual’s assets are properly distributed the way they wanted in accordance with their written wishes or applicable laws.
Probate is simply the administering of an individual’s estate once they have passed, and probate lawyers are well-versed in local, state, and federal laws that can impact how your estate is distributed.
Sometimes, you may be able to avoid probate depending on how you have protected your assets, such as placing them in a trust, designating beneficiaries, or how they are titled – all of which generally fosters a smooth transition of assets.
How a Probate Lawyer Can Help
Hiring a probate attorney can be very helpful, especially during such an emotionally challenging time. They provide objective legal guidance for the executor of the will and the estate’s beneficiaries, including throughout the probate process, which involves identifying and distributing assets accordingly.
Each estate is different and can require varying levels of involvement from the probate attorney, and can include tasks such as:
- Collecting on life insurance policies
- Obtaining property and asset appraisals
- Following through on payments for any outstanding debts, bills, estate taxes
- Preparing and filing any legal documents
When to Hire A Probate Lawyer
There are times when hiring a probate lawyer may not be necessary. However, having sound legal advice and expertise in estate and probate law can prove highly valuable for fostering a smooth transition of an estate’s assets with minimal turmoil.
A probate attorney can help guide you through the probate process, answering a variety of questions, such as whether the estate qualifies for Florida’s small estate procedures or whether it will have to pay any creditors.
Shouldn’t you be able to focus on honoring and remembering your loved one’s life rather than combing through the legal and paperwork loose ends of an estate? If you have questions pertaining to probate or any potential legal matter, contact Apfelbaum Law today for a consultation.
