-- A skilled probate lawyer, as explained by Estate Planning Attorney Bobby Sawyer, can often be a source of relief for an executor, preventing them from making costly mistakes when administering a person's estate.
For more information please visit https://www.jandspllc.com
Sawyer explained that when a person dies, their estate will be subject to probate, a legal process that ensures the deceased's assets are distributed according to their wishes and any outstanding debts or taxes are settled. This process can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring the expertise of a probate lawyer to navigate effectively.
The executor is a person nominated in the estate plan or last will and testament who oversees the probate process.
Sawyer asserted that one of the first actions an executor can take to help themselves and ensure a smooth probate process is to consult a professional probate lawyer.
“This cannot only help them navigate the complex legal requirements of probate but also provide peace of mind, knowing that they have expert guidance to rely on during this challenging time.”
A probate lawyer is a state-licensed attorney who works with the executor and beneficiaries of an estate to settle the person's affairs.
"Usually, a probate lawyer is the appointed executor. If not, they can still guide a nominated executor to ensure the probate process runs seamlessly to a successful conclusion and stays in line with state law," confirmed the founder of Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC, in Fort Mill, SC.
"Depending on the value of an estate, a probate lawyer can be involved in many different ways," Sawyer added. A probate attorney could be tasked with identifying and securing estate assets and assisting in settling and validating debts and bills. They can also file forms, gather documents needed by a probate court, and assess and pay any relevant tax dues.
An attorney may also be tasked with identifying savings and investment accounts and obtaining value appraisals for any real estate or business ownership interests left by the decedent.
Sawyer advised that a probate attorney handles the probate process after a person dies, while an estate planning attorney works with clients to draft their wills and trusts and provide planning for their estates. An attorney can offer dual services in both probate and estate planning matters.
If a will is challenged, a probate lawyer can represent a party in probate litigation.
Sawyer said that while probate lawyers are either paid by a flat rate, by the hour, or as a percentage of the estate's value, the exact arrangement will depend on an attorney's experience and the legalities to be addressed.
Sawyer emphasized the importance of potential clients asking questions before hiring a probate lawyer. These could include the lawyer's experience, areas of specialization, what services they provide, and charges. This will empower them to make informed decisions and ensure they find the right fit for their needs.
Source: http://RecommendedExperts.biz
Contact Info:
Name: Bobby Sawyer
Email: Send Email
Organization: Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC
Address: 1184 Springmaid Ave suite 201, Fort Mill, SC 29708, USA
Phone: (803) 233-6777
Website: https://www.jandspllc.com/
Release ID: 89159054