What Is a Contested Administration? Understanding Probate Disputes
When a loved one passes away, dealing with their estate can be confusing and stressful, especially when disagreements arise. You may have heard the term contested administration but wondered what it means. Let’s break it down simply so you can understand your options and how our team at Levin Law Group can help.
In New York and New Jersey, estate administration happens when a person dies without a Will. If they had a Will, the process is called probate. Sometimes, family members and heirs can’t agree on who should handle the estate. This is where a contested administration comes in. “Contested” means there is a dispute about who should be the administrator, which is the person who manages the estate and distributes assets.
Our experienced estate attorney team knows how emotional these situations can be. We’re here to represent you whether you want to become an administrator, challenge someone else’s appointment, or protect your rights as a beneficiary.
Why Do Probate Disputes Happen?
A contested administration often starts because family members disagree about who should manage the estate. Maybe someone thinks the proposed administrator isn’t trustworthy, or perhaps there are concerns about fairness. Emotions run high, and sometimes past family conflicts make things worse.
When there’s a contested administration, the matter goes to the Surrogate’s Court. The judge decides who should be appointed after hearing everyone’s objections and reviewing evidence. These proceedings can take time, so having an experienced estate attorney by your side makes a big difference.
How an Estate Attorney Can Defend Administrator Challenges
If you want to be the administrator or have already been appointed, but someone objects, our estate attorney can help defend your position. Our services include responding to objections, attending Surrogate’s Court hearings, helping with accounting demands, and filing the right paperwork. Our team knows exactly what the court expects and how to protect your role.
For example, you might face accusations that you won’t manage the estate properly. We gather proof to show you are the right choice and make sure your side of the story is heard.
How an Estate Attorney Helps Challenge an Appointment
Sometimes, you may feel the person chosen to be the administrator isn’t right for the job. Maybe they’re not handling things fairly, or you worry about dishonesty. In that case, our estate attorney can help you file objections and petitions to remove or replace an administrator.
Our attorneys can attend Surrogate’s Court proceedings on your behalf and file petitions for an accounting if you suspect mismanagement. We make sure every step follows the law, giving you peace of mind that your rights are protected during a contested administration.
How We Make It Easier for You
At Levin Law Group, our estate attorney team wants to make these difficult situations less stressful. We have 21 offices across New York and New Jersey, so we can meet you where it’s convenient. We also speak multiple languages, including Russian, Ukrainian, Spanish, and Georgian, so you can discuss your case in the language you understand best.
Our team is prepared for anything. If your main estate attorney is unavailable, we have many full-time and per diem attorneys ready to step in. Plus, we use state-of-the-art technology to keep your information secure and respond to you quickly. We know how important it is for you to feel supported during this time.
Flat Fees and Transparent Costs
We want you to know exactly what to expect. If your estate administration is uncontested, we offer a flat fee of $2,500. For a contested administration, we bill hourly and require a retainer of $5,000. We will always explain our fees upfront so there are no surprises.
Why Choose Our Estate Attorney Team?
Our estate attorney team is dedicated to helping families resolve probate disputes in a fair and compassionate way. We know these cases can be draining, but you don’t have to face them alone. We take the time to listen, explain your options like you’re family, and fight for the best outcome.
If you’re dealing with a contested administration in New York or New Jersey, reach out to us today. Let our trusted estate attorney guide you through the process and help bring peace to your family during a tough time.
Contact Us Today
If you need help with a contested administration, don’t wait. Our estate attorney team at Levin Law Group is ready to stand by your side and protect your interests. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your situation. We represent clients in New York and New Jersey. Call Levin Law Group at (212) 365-0934.