Souderton Probate Administration Lawyer

Skilled Probate Administration Lawyers Help Clients Through the Probate Process and Litigation in Southeastern Pennsylvania

Transferring assets after the death of a loved one can be a complicated and time-consuming process.  If the estate is required to go through the probate process, a series of procedural requirements apply before the estate can formally transfer assets to the deceased individual’s heirs.  Conflicts that arise among potential heirs only contribute to the difficulties you may already be facing. 

At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., our Souderton probate administration lawyers have helped thousands of clients navigate probate over the past 65 years.  Our Souderton probate administration lawyers can sit down with you and help you understand what to expect from the process and any challenges that you may be facing.  

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If you have been named executor of a loved one’s estate and would like to learn more about getting help in navigating the probate administration process, call us today.  Learning more about how we can help is free.

Know What to Expect from the Formal Probate Process

The probate process takes time and certain procedures must be followed.  Importantly, regular reports will need to be made to the courts regarding asset disposition in order to satisfy the estate’s debts and pay taxes if necessary.  Our experienced lawyers will handle or oversee preparation of all documents and walk you through the following basic probate administration steps:

  • The filing of the Will with the Register of Wills in Montgomery County for Souderton residents,
  • Preparation of the Petition for Probate which is required to be filed along with the Will,,
  • Payment of any required fee, which varies in proportion to the value of the estate,
  • Obtaining the Certificate of Grant of Letters appointing the executor (if there is no will, the estate administrator) to act on behalf of the estate,
  • If the Will was not correctly witnessed, providing any additional documents needed
  • Providing all appropriate notices that probate has begun to heirs, decedent’s creditors and by posting a public notice in a local newspaper,
  • Payment of bills, as appropriate,
  • Filing of required tax returns,
  • Distribution of the decedent’s property in accordance with their wishes.
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Get Advice From An Experienced Probate Administration Attorney. All You Have To Do Is Call 215-822-7575 To Receive Your Free Case Evaluation.

When we act as probate administrator, we will also prepare the necessary final accounting documenting all steps taken in administration of the estate.  That accounting must include:

  • The items contained in the estate,
  • The steps taken in administering the assets,
  • The plan for distributing remaining assets to heirs.

In lieu of a formal accounting, we may enter into an informal accounting with the beneficiaries to finalize the estate.

Trusted Lawyers Work to Ease the Burden of Probate Administration for Families

The probate administration process can be overwhelming even if you are not grieving the loss of a close friend or family member.  Creditors may step in to challenge the availability of assets—or even place a lien on your loved one’s home. Family members may contest aspects of the Will. 

At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., our Souderton probate administration lawyers are here to ease that burden by handling the work required to effectively carry out your loved one’s wishes.  Our lawyers will handle:

  • Filing all paperwork necessary to begin the probate process,
  • Locating the will and all other estate planning documents executed by your loved one,
  • Collecting and inventorying the probate assets, and making sure you understand which assets are excluded from the probate process,
  • Notifying any valid creditors, and posting public notice in the papers so that creditors can make claims,
  • Obtaining asset valuations as needed,
  • Liquidating any assets needed to settle estate debts,
  • Paying all debts and taxes,
  • Executing the informal or formal accounting or negotiating an estate settlement agreement with the beneficiaries.

Schedule a Free Consultation to Speak with a Seasoned Probate Administration and Litigation Lawyer Today

The last thing that you want is to violate tax rules and specific probate requirements when serving as executor of an estate.  For many, the detailed requirements can prove surprising in the wake of a loved one’s death. 

At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., our Souderton probate administration lawyers can guide you through the entire process to ensure probate is completed as smoothly and effectively as possible.  We can also work to effectively resolve any litigation that arises during probate. To learn more about our firm and lawyers, call or contact us online today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Probate Administration and Litigation

FAQ: Are there ways to retrieve the Will if it is in the safe deposit box?

Yes. Arrangements must be made with the bank or financial institution where the Will is held to get into the safe deposit box. A bank officer will accompany the individual who is retrieving the Will from the box and only the Will can be removed.

FAQ: Are there ways to challenge who is receiving my loved one’s assets even if there was a Will?

Yes. Once the probate process begins, you may be surprised to discover the contents of your loved one’s Will. We can challenge the Will on a number of grounds, especially if it was changed in recent years. Common grounds for challenging the Will include lack of capacity (your loved one did not have the mental capacity to understand the changes being made) or the undue influence of someone who will now benefit under the Will. If you would like to challenge disposition of your loved one’s assets or are facing a challenge yourself, call our lawyers for more specific guidance.