Probate administration is the process of proving to a probate court that a will is credible and genuine. The probate process begins with filing a petition to the probate court. Whether the will names a personal representative or there is a court-appointed one, the personal representative must give written notice to all creditors of the estate and take an inventory of all the decedent’s probate property, such as stocks, business interests and real property. All estate and funeral expenses, estate taxes and debts must be paid from the estate. Washington, D.C. and Maryland probate administration attorney Kay Watkins offers professional and experienced legal representation in probate administration to help manage the tasks involved for personal representatives.
How The Law Offices of Kay B. Watkins Assists with Probate Administration
From start to finish of the probate of the probate process, Washington, D.C. and Maryland probate administration attorney Kay Watkins helps personal representatives complete their tasks in a proper and timely manner. This helps avoid any potential personal liability. Attorney Kay Watkins assists with:
- Preparing and filing all required documents
- Locating and securing non-probate assets and probate assets
- Rolling over retirement plans
- Advising on the payment of the decedent’s outstanding debts and final bills
- Addressing income tax issues
- Determining any inheritance and estate taxes due at the state and federal levels
- Attaining appraisals of the decedent’s assets
- Settling disputes among beneficiaries
- Distributing assets to the beneficiaries
Washington, D.C. and Maryland Probate Administration Attorney Kay Watkins
Disputes may arise in probate for a variety of reasons. Heirs may be dissatisfied with the disposition of a decedent’s property or the family may disagree who the fiduciary is. Attorney Kay Watkins can assist with mediation to resolve conflicts and disagreements. Mediation is an alternative solution to litigation. Family members can work in a private setting and forge their own solutions to a dispute. It’s also a cost-effective strategy to litigation.
The best course of action when dealing with probate administration is to have the assistance of a probate lawyer. The passing of a loved one is always stressful, and the last thing you need is more complicated transactions and emotion. Let probate administration attorney Kay Watkins deal with the financial aspect of matters and any disputes that may arise.