Probate Administration
You don't have to handle this alone.
Losing someone is hard enough without also being responsible for their paperwork. Probate is the legal process for sorting out what happens to someone's property after they pass, and most people are dealing with it for the first time while they're still grieving. You don't need to become an expert in it. You just need someone who already is.
What it is
Probate is the court process for transferring someone's property after they die, whether or not they had a will. The court oversees who's allowed to manage the estate, makes sure it's handled properly, and ensures the right people end up with what they're owed.
What the process looks like
We start by gathering information: the will if there is one, the assets in the estate, and who's entitled to inherit. From there, we file what's needed with the court, notify creditors, and take an inventory of everything involved.
While the case is open, we make sure bills, taxes, and insurance stay current, and that any property or business involved keeps running. We handle creditor claims, provide the required accountings to the court, and once everything is settled, we distribute what's left to the family.
You don't have to navigate the court process or untangle family disagreements alone. We handle the legal complexity so you can focus on everything else.
What success looks like
A well-handled probate means the right people get what they're owed, creditors are paid only what they're actually due, and nothing falls through the cracks. It means you didn't have to figure out the court process yourself, and your family didn't have to navigate it without support.
Common Questions
Am I personally responsible for my loved one's debts?
Generally, no. Debts are typically paid out of the estate itself, not out of your own pocket.
Does all property have to go through probate?
No. Some assets, like jointly owned property or accounts with a named beneficiary, can pass outside of probate entirely.
Can I just handle this myself?
You can try, but probate involves court deadlines, legal filings, and rules that vary depending on the size of the estate. Mistakes can be costly and slow things down further during an already difficult time.
Someone took property that should've gone to the estate.
Someone took property that should've gone to the estate. Is there anything I can do?
Yes. There are legal options for addressing this, but timing matters, so it's worth talking to someone as soon as you notice it.