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Losing A Loved One Is Hard – But Navigating Probate Doesn’t Have To Be

When a loved one passes away, his or her estate often goes through a court-managed process called probate or estate administration where the assets of the deceased are managed and distributed. If your loved one owned his or her assets through a well-drafted and properly funded living trust, it is likely that no court-managed administration is necessary, though the successor trustee needs to administer the distribution of the deceased’s assets. The length of time needed to complete the probate of an estate depends on the size and complexity of the estate and the local rules and schedule of the probate court. Every probate estate is unique, but most involve the following steps:

  • Filing of a petition with the proper probate court
  • Notice to heirs under the will or to statutory heirs (if no will exists)
  • Petition to appoint executor (in the case of a will) or administrator for the estate
  • Inventory and appraisal of estate assets by executor/administrator
  • Payment of estate debt to rightful creditors
  • Sale of estate assets
  • Payment of estate taxes, if applicable
  • Final distribution of assets to heirs

Compassionate Legal Assistance Is Just A Phone Call Away

Mourning the loss of a loved one is hard enough, even without the headache of navigating the probate system. I will help you address your probate or estate matter efficiently and professionally so you and your family can focus on recovering from your loss.

To schedule an initial consultation, just call 317-921-0094 or send me an email. From my office in Indianapolis, I serve clients throughout Indiana.