What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process of settling an estate. This usually happens after someone dies. The probate court appoints a personal representative to oversee the process. This person is responsible for gathering the deceased person’s assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries.
The probate process can be complicated and time-consuming. A probate lawyer can help make it easier. Here are four ways a Worcester probate lawyer can help:
Simplify the Process
Probate can be confusing, especially if you’re going through it for the first time. A lawyer can explain what’s happening at each step and answer any questions you have. A probate lawyer will make sure all the paperwork is filed correctly and on time. This can help avoid delays in the process.
Some assets, like a house or a business, can be difficult to deal with during probate. A lawyer can help you figure out the best way to handle these types of assets. If there are disagreements among beneficiaries or creditors, a lawyer can help resolve them. This can help keep the process moving forward. If you’re dealing with the death of a loved one, contact the Law Office of Polly Tatum for help with probate. We’ll make sure everything is done properly and efficiently so you can focus on grieving.
Gathering Assets
One of the first steps in probate is gathering the deceased person’s assets. This includes things like bank accounts, investments, real estate, and personal property. A lawyer can help you locate all the assets and determine their value. This is important because the estate will have to pay debts and taxes from these assets.
If there are missing assets or disputes over who should get them, a lawyer can help resolve the issue. For example, if someone dies without a will, a lawyer can help figure out how to distribute the assets according to state law.
A lawyer can also help if there are problems with asset titles or deeds. For example, if the deed to a house is in someone else’s name, a lawyer can help get it transferred to the estate. This is important because the estate will need to sell the property to pay debts and taxes.
Distribute Assets
After debts and taxes are paid, the remaining assets will be distributed to beneficiaries. A lawyer can help make sure this is done according to the will or state law. If there is no will, a lawyer can help determine who should inherit the assets. This can be a difficult decision, but a lawyer can help make it easier.
Some assets may need to be sold to pay debts or taxes. A lawyer can help you figure out the best way to sell these assets. They can also help you negotiate with creditors. This can help make sure you get the most money from the sale of these assets.
Paying Debts and Taxes
One of the responsibilities of the personal representative is to pay the deceased person’s debts and taxes. A lawyer can help you figure out which debts need to be paid and how to pay them. They can also help you negotiate with creditors. If there are unpaid debts, a lawyer can help you determine what to do next.
The personal representative is also responsible for paying taxes on the estate. A lawyer can help you file the necessary paperwork and make sure all deadlines are met. They can also help you minimize the amount of taxes owed on the estate.
Law Office of Polly Tatum
19 Cedar St Worcester, MA 01609
(774) 366-3688
https://www.LawOfficeOfPollyTatum.com
