When a loved one dies, it is an emotional and challenging time, as family, friends, and relatives struggle to deal with their loss and handle the resulting legal implications. Often, one of the most pressing and complex legal issues is estate administration¬–the legal process of transferring the decedent’s property or estate either through the provisions of a will, a trust, or the laws of intestate succession if the decedent dies without leaving a will. Early planning can ease the burden placed on your loved ones during such a challenging time, and having an estate plan in place to dispose of your assets before death or automatically upon death are just a few options that can help avoid unnecessary conflict and dispute.
While the probate process can be time-consuming, difficult, and expensive, we work closely with family members to ensure a smooth and pleasant transfer of the deceased loved one’s assets and estate. We encourage our clients to consider early planning options and pursue viable alternatives that enable older adults to transfer assets upon or before death in such a manner that avoids the probate process altogether. Careful estate planning is key, and we are eager to work with clients and explore the legal options that are available to them.