PROBATE
Probate Administration: we manage the filings, notices, accounting, and distribution from petition to closing.
Probate is the court-supervised process for settling an estate. We assist the personal representative so they can minimize delays and navigate the complexity of the probate process. These include:
- Opening the estate
- Notifying heirs, beneficiaries, and creditors.
- Inventorying assets
- Paying valid claims and taxes
- Distributing property under the will or state law
- Filing the final accounting and closing the case
Plan now so your loved ones aren’t managing court paperwork while they’re grieving.
When Probate Is Needed
- Assets titled only in the decedent’s name (no beneficiary/TOD/POD)
- Real property held individually
- Accounts without current beneficiary designations
- No will, missing documents, or disputes about who’s in charge
- Multiple heirs or complicated asset mixes
Not Sure What to Do? Start Here.
If you’re handling an estate now:
- Gather the basics – death certificate, any will/trust, recent statements, deeds/titles
- Secure and pause – protect property/mail and don’t distribute anything yet
- Book a consult – if probate is required, we file to get you appointed
After your appointment, we handle filings, notices, inventory, claims, and closing; you review and sign.
What to bring to your consult: will/trust (if any), a short asset list, and recent statements. Exact numbers aren’t required.
If you’re planning ahead:
- Choose your people – name your executor, financial agent (POA), healthcare proxy and backups.
- Put it in writing – create your will (and a trust when necessary), POA, healthcare docs; update beneficiaries/TOD/POD after life changes.
- Organize access – gather all key accounts, contacts, and digital logins in one place and tell your executor.
This will result in fewer court steps, faster timelines, and clear instructions for the people you trust.
Quick Questions About Probate:
Is probate always required?
No. It depends on how assets were titled and whether beneficiaries were named. We’ll assess this in your consult.
What if there’s no will?
We follow state law to appoint a personal representative and distribute assets. The process is still manageable.
Do joint or beneficiary-named accounts go through probate?
Generally no—they transfer directly. We still document them and assist you with reconciling the final accounting.
How long does it take to settle an estate?
Timelines vary by court and complexity. We’ll give you an informed range and keep the case moving.
What if we can’t find the original will?
The process in DC is different from Maryland. During our meeting we will discuss the options most appropriate for the jurisdiction.
How soon can beneficiaries receive distributions?
After the claims period and required approvals. We’ll give you a timeline and release partials when the estate allows.