Dealing with the passing of a loved one is never easy, and while you have never heard the term “probate,” you are now expected to handle your loved ones affairs. Some think that the probate process is quick and simple. This is often far from the truth. The fact is, there are numerous legal steps that must be taken to ensure that your loved one’s estate is handled correctly, and that their wishes are honored. Contact the Staten Island Probate Attorneys from Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC for assistance. Our experienced Probate Attorneys are experienced in all aspects of probate and estate planning, and can help guide you through the process.
When you speak with a Staten Island Probate Lawyer from our office, they can explain how the probate of an estate works, and what you will to do to accomplish this. If there is a valid will, the will along with other documentation is submitted to the Surrogate’s Court. The court will verify the authenticity of the documents and appoint an executor. The executor will be responsible for managing the assets of the estate, paying any bills or taxes due, and eventually distributing assets to the beneficiaries of the estate. This Estate Administration process can be time consuming and labor intensive. Various accountings and filings will need to be completed in order to wind up the affairs of the estate.
If there was not a will in effect at the time of your loved one’s passing, there will be a different legal process involved. An administration petition and other documents will be filed with the court, and an administrator will be appointed. The responsibilities of an administrator are similar to those of an executor. It is important to approach these matters with the assistance of a Probate Attorney, because if the estate is not handled appropriately, the executor or administrator could be subject to liability. In fact, is not uncommon for an Estate Litigation matter to arise. An administrator could be subject to an action for mismanaging the estate for instance.
Handling a probate matter is never easy. It is very unfamiliar territory for most people until they are forced to deal with estate of a loved one. Contact a Staten Island Estate Litigation Attorney from our office for guidance. Whether you need assistance with a Trust Administration matter, or an elder law concern, we can help. We have offices throughout New York City including Staten Island, Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn and Manhattan. We also have offices in Westchester County, as well as both Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island. Call us today to set up your free appointment at 800.696.9529.