when to hire an attorney for probate

by Josephine Hilpert 8 min read

A probate lawyer helps reduce confusion and doubt about these legal matters. A probate lawyer can help executors with court filings, debt settlement, appraising assets and releasing inheritance. The role of executor is fraught with potential pitfalls that leave the executor open to personal legal risks.

Why should I hire a probate lawyer?

It is especially recommended to have a Probate lawyer on hand if the estate is large or contested in some way, such as someone arguing the validity of a Will or the distribution of assets should a Will not be present. If you are aware immediately that any of these circumstances exist, hiring a Probate lawyer at the start of the process is always the best idea.

Do executors need a lawyer for probate?

May 20, 2013 · The probate court can be a confusing, difficult place for people without a competent attorney. Although there is no requirement to do so, in most cases, the best way to protect your rights is to hire a competent probate attorney. The Probate Pro recommends the following tips deciding to hire a probate attorney: The Initial consultation should be free and …

What happens if you don’t have a probate lawyer?

When do I need a probate lawyer? If the value of the estate is over $150,000, or the estate owns real property (e.g. house, condo, commercial property, etc.) then the estate must go through probate. You always have the option to self-administer probate or retain a probate lawyer, regardless of the value of the estate.

Do I need a lawyer to wind up an estate?

Dec 11, 2021 · 6 Steps To Hire A Probate Attorney. When a person dies, they leave behind memories for their loved ones to cherish. They also typically leave behind an “estate,” which consists of property, bank accounts, and other assets. They may also leave behind debts—sometimes substantial ones. If the person drafted and signed a will, and if the terms of …

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I have probate notes, do I need a probate lawyer?

Probate notes are a normal part of the probate administration process. When you file your Petition for Probate, the probate examiner may issue “probate notes” that ask for additional information or clarification. Then it’s your job to file a supplement to answer the examiner’s questions.

What are probate notes?

Probate notes are simply questions and requests for additional information regarding your Petition for Probate. When you file your Petition for Probate with your County Probate Court, the Petition will be reviewed by a county probate examiner.

What is a probate supplement?

A probate supplement is the way to respond to the probate examiner’s question. You complete the probate supplement form, and add it to your case file. It’s best to file the probate supplement well BEFORE your hearing date at your county probate court.

Can I file a probate supplement myself?

Yes, you can file a probate supplement yourself. If you live in Los Angeles County, you can download the probate supplement form for LASC-Probate Division by clicking here. If you live in Orange County, you can download the probate supplement for The Superior Court of California County of Orange by clicking here.

When do I need a probate lawyer?

If the value of the estate is over $150,000, or the estate owns real property (e.g. house, condo, commercial property, etc.) then the estate must go through probate. You always have the option to self-administer probate or retain a probate lawyer, regardless of the value of the estate.

What does a probate lawyer do?

A probate lawyer handles the entire probate administration process for the executor of the estate, including:

How much does a probate lawyer cost?

Most probate lawyers cost you nothing out of pocket. Typically, probate lawyer fees are paid by the estate, at the close of probate. While there are some probate lawyers who will ask for an upfront fee, there are other options.

Understand what a probate attorney does

Probate attorneys focus on estate planning, wills, and trusts, but there are significant differences in their areas of expertise.

Start your attorney search, and ask these essential questions

Establishing an attorney’s credentials is the primary goal of an initial consultation. You should determine whether probate is the firm’s primary practice area. You should also find out whether the attorney practices in the county’s probate court often and whether the person has handled similar cases in the past.

Prepare for your meeting with the attorney

For efficiency and convenience, prospective clients need to be adequately prepared for their first meeting with a probate attorney. A lawyer may need the following documents to assess the case accurately:

Get the closure you deserve

Probate is considered closed once the executor feels they’ve uncovered all assets and debts belonging to the deceased individual and a final accounting has been completed.

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