If you were appointed as the executor of your loved one’s estate and they now passed away, you will likely have to go through the probate process. Probate can be complicated, and as the executor, you now have a great deal of responsibility. Don’t face this process alone. Contact a knowledgeable Queens probate lawyer from Vasiliou Law so we can guide you through it, every step of the way.
When someone with a will passes away, their estate will likely have to pass through probate, which is essentially the legal process of validating a will and distributing assets held in the estate to the appropriate beneficiaries. As an executor, you’ll have a lot on your plate, but a competent Queens lawyer from our firm can walk you through this process and ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
To start, as executor, you and your attorney will file a probate petition, along with the original will, and a certified death certificate. You will then be tasked with notifying all beneficiaries and heirs of the probate proceeding and serving them with a citation.
From here, you will have to locate and inventory all assets held within the estate and pay any debts or taxes owed by the decedent. Once this has been completed, the Surrogate’s Court judge will review the will and the petition and determine whether to admit the will to probate.
After the will is admitted, you will receive letters testamentary, which will authorize you to distribute the decedent’s estate in accordance with their will.
Typically, probate will take anywhere between seven to nine months, but this can vary depending on the complexity and value of the estate.
The bottom line is that if you’re about to go through the probate process, you need a proficient probate lawyer in your corner. Vasiliou Law can help you navigate the process, avoid common mistakes, and advise you on your obligations as an executor, beneficiary, or heir. Additionally, Vasiliou Law can represent you in court if any disputes or challenges to the will or the estate arise at any point in the process. Ultimately, hiring a seasoned attorney can save time, money, and stress, and ensure that the estate is distributed according to the wishes of your loved one. Contact Vasiliou Law today to schedule your initial consultation with our firm.
© 2024 Vasiliou Law. All rights reserved.