“If you have been named as an executor or trustee, your family is looking to you for leadership and competence at a difficult time.”
Lawyers define “probate” as proving a will in court. However, we are usually able to avoid the need for probate with good estate planning. Sometimes we can avoid it even if no planning was done before death, using an Affidavit of Heirship, Small Estate Affidavit, Family Settlement Agreement and other strategies.
Even when good estate planning is done, there is often a need for legal work in administration of a living trust, probate of a will that must be put into effect, or administration of an estate involving legal issues. If you have been named as an executor or trustee, your family is looking to you for leadership and competence at a difficult time. A good “probate lawyer” can help you pass that test.
