When you are about to embark on the probate process after a loved one has passed away, you may feel like you have your work cut out for you. Many people take this time to grieve the loss of their loved one and find comfort in talking about special memories with their family members. However, when you are named as the executor in your loved one’s will or named as one of the beneficiaries, you may soon discover that you do not have the time to grieve like you expected when you have certain duties to fill out. During the probate process, the executor is left to manage the deceased’s will and this can go smoothly if there are no issues or it can be a bumpy road, depending on whether anyone steps forward to contest the will or brings up issues they have with it. That is why it is beneficial for the executor and/or the named beneficiaries to work with a lawyer.
What kind of role does a lawyer play?
When you are looking for attorneys to help out with the probate process, you will likely be looking specifically for attorneys. A lawyer can bring valuable insight into the probate process and can help the executor with the different responsibilities they will have once they are in charge of the estate. A probate attorney can help:
- Identify and locate the assets named in the estate
- The executor find an appraiser for the assets
- When someone comes forward to contest the will
- When disputes arise between beneficiaries
- Address any tax issues that arise
How can you work with a probate attorney?
When it comes to working with a lawyer of any kind, the task can be quite daunting. However, the lawyer is there to help the process run as smoothly as possible and you can make this happen by preparing any paperwork you may already have on the estate, showing up to meetings in a timely fashion, and providing any documents relating to the estate to your lawyer. Your lawyer will understand that this is likely a difficult time for you, especially if you were given the task of being the executor of the estate. It is important to be open and honest about any issues or concerns you may have. For more information, please reach out to your trusted local lawyer today.
