When you lose a loved one and their estate goes to probate, there are steps to take for verifying, valuing, and distributing the assets of the estate. Heirs can enlist the services of a probate attorney to help navigate the process and ensure matters are handled in the appropriate manner.
STEPS INVOLVED IN THE PROBATE PROCESS
The estate administrator also referred to as an executor, is responsible for handling probate. In most cases, this person is named in the deceased’s will or is selected from the close relatives or the beneficiaries of the deceased.
The stages of the probate process may include:
Proving the validly of a will (if there is one)
Filing all necessary papers with the clerk
Appraising all the property
Inventorying the assets and debts
Liquidating assets, if necessary
Preparing tax returns
Paying outstanding debts
Distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries
WHEN PROBATE DISPUTES ARISE
Sometimes mistakes and discrepancies may arise when beneficiaries try to mitigate the tasks themselves. For instance:
creditors may not be paid as they should
mistakes in taxes can be made
the transfer of assets paperwork may be handled incorrectly
Furthermore, some executors might not have the best interests of all the beneficiaries in mind. Rather, their own financial benefit might be in the forefront of their mind and they may not distribute the assets as the will or law requires. If you are a beneficiary and you suspect mishandling or fraud, or think your rights may be being thwarted, consult a probate attorney as soon as possible.
PROBATE ATTORNEYS IN EVERETT, WASHINGTON
If you are in need of legal counsel for probate in Everett, Washington, or if you are in the process of planning your estate and are looking for ways to avoid probate, call our estate planning lawyers at Deno Millikan. We can help you handle every aspect of probate and estate planning, from preparation to litigation. Contact our office at 425-259-2222 to schedule a consultation with a probate attorney today.