Reliable Advice About Probate And Estate Administration
It can be incredibly difficult to lose a loved one. Many families face additional worries regarding the probate process to settle the decedent’s affairs. In some cases, probate can be burdensome, but in many situations, it can be managed smoothly and efficiently with the help of an experienced attorney. That’s where I come in.
At the law firm of Rebecca H. Fischer, P.A., I have extensive experience with all types of estate and probate matters. I advise and represent families that have lost loved ones in South Florida. As your attorney, I can answer your questions about:
- How long the probate process will take
- How much probate will cost
- How to address the decedent’s debts
- The differences between summary administration and full administration
- Estate assets that may result in an estate tax liability
- Intestate estates (estates of those who have died without a will)
- Probate litigation in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach county courts
- Trustees and trust administration
- Will contests and trust disputes
- How a thorough estate plan can avoid probate
- Whether you have to appear in probate court if you are a personal representative
How Long Does Probate Take?
The length of the probate process depends on the complexity of an estate and the assets involved. There are two types of probate:
- Summary probate is for estates worth less than $75,000. As long as all beneficiaries agree to sign the summary probate petition, it can wrap up in less than a month.
- Formal probate administration is more complicated. It is a court-supervised process led by the personal representative. It usually takes six to nine months.
I can give you a better idea of what to expect from probate, including how long it will take, when we have a one-on-one conversation.
Role Of The Executor In Probate
An executor, also known as a personal representative, is the person who oversees the administration of a deceased person’s estate. If the decedent did not name executor in their will, the court will appoint one. Their responsibilities include:
- Notifying beneficiaries
- Repaying creditors
- Filing taxes
- Inventorying assets
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries
- Closing the estate
Because these duties are very complex, most executors work with an estate administration and probate lawyer to advise and guide them.
Talk To A Lawyer Today
Every probate case is different. I can address your concerns about probate and estate administration. Contact Rebecca H. Fischer, P.A., about your situation. My office is in Hollywood, Florida. To set up a consultation, please call 954-546-7250 or send me an email.