Signs You Need To Hire A Probate Attorney

In California, the law does not require an executor to hire a probate attorney. In fact, many executors can handle the probate process themselves without the help of a probate attorney. If you’re facing a probate situation, you might be wondering whether you should hire an attorney. Well, depending on various things, it may be best for you to hire an attorney. Depending on your situation, you might not be able to get by well without an attorney’s help.

So, how do you know if you should hire a probate attorney? This article discusses some of the top signs you need to hire a probate attorney.

How Can a Probate Attorney Help an Executor?

Before getting into some of the top signs you need to hire a probate attorney, it is crucial first to discuss who a probate attorney is and how a probate attorney can help an executor. A probate attorney is a type of attorney who comes in handy in the probating process, which is the process of settling a decedent’s estate.

There are many things a probate attorney can do for an executor or personal representative. For example, a probate attorney can guide an executor or personal representative through the probate process. A probate attorney can also help an executor deal with beneficiary disputes and represent an executor if they get into a lawsuit from a third party.

Signs You Need To Hire a Probate Attorney

If you are the executor of a decedent’s estate and are unsure whether you should hire a probate attorney, you need to be aware of the signs to watch out for to know you need an attorney. The following are some top signs you need to hire a probate attorney.

You Don’t Understand Probate Laws

Probate laws are complicated, and even if you can learn about probate from online sources or through other means, it is impossible to learn everything you need to within a short time. If you do not understand probate laws, it is best to retain a probate attorney who understands these laws.

There Are Beneficiary Disputes

The probate process can bring out the worst in people. During the probate process, it is not unusual for beneficiaries to disagree. If, for example, a beneficiary is threatening to sue another beneficiary, you should talk to a probate attorney immediately. Probate lawsuits can drain a lot of money from the estate and tear families apart. An attorney may be able to help you handle the situation in a manner that does not cost the estate a lot of money or tear the decedent’s family apart.

The Estate Is Complex

Things can get complicated if the decedent’s estate contains complex assets such as commercial real estate or a business. A probate attorney can help with the administration of a complex estate. Also, if the estate owes a lot of debts or taxes, an attorney can ensure you handle matters correctly to avoid issues in the future.

Contact The Probate Guy for Legal Help

If you are the executor of a decedent’s estate and are ready to hire a probate attorney, contact the skilled and dedicated California probate attorney, Robert L. Cohen – The Probate Guy – today to schedule a free telephonic consultation.

Source:

law.cornell.edu/wex/probate