Finding the best probate attorney is an important part of ensuring that your estate is managed properly after your death. The right lawyer can help you navigate the often-challenging process of settling an estate, paying creditors, distributing assets, and providing for guardianships. It’s a good idea to find a probate attorney who specializes in estate planning and probate law so that they are familiar with all the current laws and regulations pertaining to your case.
The first thing to look for in a probate attorney is whether or not they are licensed to practice law in your state. In addition, you should also consider the length of time that they have been in practice. Generally speaking, the longer that an attorney has been in practice, the more experienced they will be at handling a variety of legal issues.
You should also pay attention to the way that a potential probate attorney communicates with you during the initial consultation. This is a big deal because you want to be sure that they can provide the services you need and that you feel comfortable working with them during this challenging (and often emotional) time.
How they respond to your questions is another important factor to consider. Do they take the time to explain complex legal matters in easy-to-understand terms? Or do they seem to rush you through your appointment, as if they have bigger fish to fry? The right probate attorney will be understanding and respectful of your situation, as well as be knowledgeable and responsive to your concerns.
Finally, be sure to ask the prospective attorney about their fee structure. Will they charge hourly? A percentage based on the value of the estate? Do they have a paralegal in the office who can assist with some of the work at a lower rate? Knowing how much you will be charged for their services can save you a lot of stress and headaches in the future.
One of the main purposes of probate is to minimize the opportunity for fraud after a person’s death. The probate process allows for the identification and appraisal of all assets in an estate, ensures that debts and taxes are paid, and provides protection for heirs from creditor claims. However, the process can be complex and lengthy, especially if there are a lot of assets to distribute.
Disputes over an estate can become extremely emotional for the heirs and beneficiaries, and it’s a good idea to hire an attorney who is experienced in estate litigation. The Davis & Associates Attorneys at Law helps clients with disputes involving the validity of a will, conservatorship and guardianship, estate tax appeals, disputed trust claims, and more. The firm has been in business since 1995. Click here to contact their office.
Probate can be complicated, but it’s not impossible to manage. The key is to hire a competent probate attorney who can remove obstacles, save you money, and make the process as smooth as possible for all parties involved.