Losing a family member is an extremely difficult experience. In a time of grief, having to deal with a complicated legal system tends to make things more chaotic and stressful, especially in cases where a loved one has died with no Will. This is why it is critically important for every adult to have a fully updated Will in place, regardless of your current health, age, or financial status.
Even if your loved one did not leave a Will, you have options and resources available to you. The identification and administration of assets involves challenges, but an experienced probate lawyer can guide you through every step of the process with compassion and efficiency. During your time of confusion and chaos, let us help you find clarity and navigate the probate process.
How can you determine a deceased loved one’s assets?
One of the most challenging steps for the executor or administrator of an estate after a loved one has died is to try to gather all relevant documents associated with the decedent's estate. This includes bank statements, real property deeds, titles, and any other records of assets and debts. Our team can provide valuable insight on identifying, obtaining, and effectively organizing these documents.
Who is appointed executor if the decedent has not left a Will?
The executor or administrator’s role is to manage a person’s assets/estate after they have died. This responsibility includes the identification and collection of assets, payment of debts, and distribution. A valid, legally sound Will can name an executor, but in cases where an individual has died and no Will has been properly signed, then New York intestate laws will be followed. These laws will control who can apply for appointment as the administrator, and also how the assets of the person’s estate will eventually be distributed.
Our skilled Estate Team has been handling probate cases for years, and can walk you through the process from start to finish. While we cannot take all of your stress away after your loved one has passed, we can offer a helping hand with the legal challenges that you are faced with during an already difficult time.
What are the benefits of hiring a probate lawyer?
Having an experienced probate lawyer in your corner will give you peace of mind. Besides preparing the necessary paperwork required by the Court to have an executor or administrator appointed, a probate lawyer can help you to identify and manage your loved one’s assets. Deaths within a family often trigger emotionally charged situations. Disagreements about a deceased individual’s wishes and asset distribution can become heated.
Having MCV Law as a resource can help. We can help work on a resolution if and when conflict occurs, so that you and your family can transition into the healing phase of grief after the loss of your loved one.
We’re here to help.
MCV Law offers a helping hand in situations that can feel impossible to manage on your own. Our compassion, experience, skills, and resources are exactly what you need to navigate the aftermath of your loved one’s passing. We are here for you.
We welcome you to connect with our Estate Team today for a free initial consultation: