Probate Lawyer

Probate Law

Probate Lawyer Serving Barnwell, SC 

Probate lawyers, also called trust or estate planning lawyers, help executors of the estate navigate the probate process. They can help with estate planning such as the creation of wills and trusts. They can also provide advice on powers of attorney or even serve as executors or administrators. The services that we provide depend upon if the decedent has or has not drafted a will before their passing. If there is a will, the probate lawyer will likely advise the executor or administrator of the estate on legal matters. When there is no will, your estate is distributed according to the intestacy laws of the state where the property resides, regardless of your wishes.

Why You Should Hire a Probate Lawyer

· Helps Prevent Personal Liability for Your Action as Executor: An executor can become personally liable if they make an error in arranging assets, generating reports, paying creditors and heirs in the wrong order or amounts, failing to obtain court permission before taking certain actions, and failing to give proper notice to individuals in the proper manners. An attorney will help advise you through the issues and ensure you don’t become personally liable for a mistake.


· The Probate Process Will Quicken: The probate process can last years if the proper forms are not completed correctly the first time, proper notice isn’t given to all necessary parties, hasn’t obtained all the needed signatures of heirs and interested creditors, and haven’t filed the appropriate documents for the legal deadlines. A probate lawyer will ensure that all necessary forms are filled out accurately, everyone has received the necessary notice, and that paperwork is filed on time.


· Minimize Potential Disputes: Disputes are minimized when the estate is handled by a professional that navigates the process quickly, properly, and efficiently. They will ensure that the wishes of the deceased are carried out to the best of their ability.


·  Minimize Stress on the Family: Families can become stressed out when they are worried about an estate being distributed improperly, if the process is taking a long time, or when money is involved. Hiring an attorney will place a third party between the heirs and the executor of the estate. This will allow the executor to spend their time and energy on their family.

How Do You Know You Need a Probate Lawyer?

  • The Will is Contested: A contested will can quickly escalate into a long and drawn-out process that is expensive and inconvenient. Prepare your legal defense in advance by hiring knowledgeable probate lawyers. This is the best way to ensure the will is carried out the way it was originally intended.
  • Assets Split: Assets included in a will such as intellectual property, copyright, patents or trademarks are a great indicator that a probate lawyer can be helpful. Probate lawyers are able to guide the process ensuring that all parties involved come out on top.
  • Unpaid Taxes: Estate taxes, property taxes, real estate taxes, and sometimes other types of taxes or fees still need to be paid from the estate. Hiring a probate lawyer will help you work through the unpaid taxes from the estate.

Contact Our Professional Probate Lawyer Today

Did a loved one recently pass away without a will or trust? Are you stuck in the probate process? Then hiring an experienced probate lawyer like Harvey Law Office LLC is a great idea. We will help ensure a smooth and quick probate process while doing our best to adhere to the deceased wishes for their estate. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

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