Long Island Probate Lawyers

Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC firmly believe that everyone deserves compassionate and knowledgeable legal guidance during tough times. Anyone can agree that losing a loved one is a devastating experience. At a time of emotional challenges, you may be called upon to handle your loved one’s estate. This includes gathering and maintaining assets, paying creditors, and determining the beneficiaries of the estate. This process is called probate. It is important to seek the guidance of one of the Long Island Probate Attorneys from our team.

The probate process can be foreign to most people, so it is important to approach it with the guidance of a qualified Probate Attorney from our office to help you. Initially, it will be necessary to file your loved one’s will along with other estate documentation with the Surrogate’s Court. After these documents are authenticated, the court will designate an executor to perform certain functions on behalf of the estate. It will be necessary to determine all of the assets of the estate and maintain them. This can include real property, bank accounts, cars and much more. There will be debts that will need to be paid out of the estate, and tax returns filed. In the end, the assets will be distributed to the beneficiaries of the estate.

If there is not a will, the process is handled differently. Certain documentation will need to be filed with the court, including an administration petition. The court will appoint an administrator who will handle the affairs of the estate, much like an executor. Occasionally complications arise, and a beneficiary of the estate may file an Estate Litigation action. These actions can be emotionally upsetting, to say the least. Disgruntled family members may step forward and contest the will, or file an action against the estate claiming they have not received their fair portion of the estate. It is important to have a Long Island Estate Litigation Attorney working on your behalf in instances like these, to ensure that your rights are protected and your loved one’s wishes are carried out.

Our team of Long Island Probate Attorneys has spent many years representing clients in the most difficult circumstances. Our Probate Attorneys have a strong track record of success. Whether you need assistance with a Trust Administration matter, want to create an estate plan for you and your family, or need assistance with Estate Administration, we can help. When you speak with a Long Island Probate Lawyer from our office, you will receive a free consultation. We have offices throughout the New York area to serve you including Manhattan, Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island. We also have offices on Long Island, in both Nassau County and Suffolk County, as well as Westchester County. Call us today for your appointment at 800.696.9529.