Probate & Estate Administration

When an individual passes away, his or her assets do NOT automatically transfer to the deceased’s heirs. If the deceased dies with a Will, the Will must be submitted to Surrogates court for a legal process known as Probate. Probate is the process of proving that the decedent’s Will is valid. If the deceased died without a Will, the decedent’s estate has to go through a legal process known as Estate Administration. In both cases certain heirs and potential beneficiaries have to be notified; the process is long and complicated.

Our probate attorneys charge $2,500 plus court fees for an UNCONTESTED Will Probate or Estate Administration. Uncontested means that nobody challenges the distribution of the assets or the appointment of an administrator/executor. If there is a legal dispute as to either, the process becomes contested and the flat fee does not apply.

Our flat fee of $2,500 includes the following:

WILL PROBATE:

• Preparing & Filing the Probate Petition with Surrogates Court;
• Preparing & Filing Heirship Affidavit & Family Tree;
• Preparing & Filing Waivers from necessary parties;
• Preparing other miscellaneous affidavits and related documents;
• Appointment of an Executor;
• Obtaining Letters Testamentary
• Advising regarding distribution of assets;
• Advising regarding filing of taxes; and
• Advising regarding outstanding debts.

ESTATE ADMINISTRATION:

• Preparing & Filing Petition for Letters of Administration;
• Preparing & Filing Heirship Affidavit & Family Tree;
• Preparing & Filing Waivers from necessary parties;
• Preparing other miscellaneous affidavits and related documents;
• Appointment of an Administrator;
• Obtaining Letters of Administration;
• Advising regarding distribution of assets;
• Advising regarding filing of taxes; and
• Advising regarding outstanding debts.

Please note that surrogate court fees are based on the estimated value of the estate.  The fees range from $45 to $1,250.  Please further note that the services of an accountant and/or appraiser may be necessary depending on the assets involved.

Our Probate Attorneys and Estate Administration Lawyers look forward to helping you. Call us today.