Your probate attorney:

One less worry

When assets enter probate there is a lot of uncertainty, and the process can be intimidating. As an heir or creditor to the deceased, you have rights in the probate court system. Probate can often be an informal process that is handled in a timely manner; however, it still requires a lawyer who can look after your interests.

As experienced estate planners, SHB thoroughly understands the legal process surrounding the probate system. Calling on our legal expertise helps ensure that your rights are protected and your concerns are argued, whatever your interest in the matter. If you are dealing with a probate matter, contact SHB to discuss how we can best represent your concerns in the case.

What Probate Attorneys Do
We deal with the legal process during which the will is validated; the assets of the deceased are inventoried; and all debts, creditor claims (including applicable lawsuits) and taxes are paid. Then, once it is determined who is entitled by the probate proceedings, the remaining assets that were left in the Will are distributed to the named beneficiaries and heirs.

The probate process is generally overseen by an executor or by a court. Probate can take anywhere from four months to a number of years to be completed, depending on state laws and varying circumstances.  Will’s are probated in the county and state in which the testator (or author of the will) died.  Property outside the location where the testator died requires a separate probate proceeding.  SHB’s legal team offers experienced professional guidance when dealing with jurisdictional problems as well as other complications involving joint ownership or joint tenancy property agreements, right of survivorship, payable on death (POD) bank accounts, “in trust for” accounts and other trusts with named beneficiaries, life insurance, retirement accounts (IRAs and 401Ks) and annuities.

SHB lawyers can you navigate this complicated process and ensure that your interests are guarded and well advocated.  Pick up the phone and give us a call or send us an email at help@shblawyer.com.