Probate and Estate Administration
Probate is the legal process by which a person’s assets are distributed after death. If a person dies with a valid Will, an executor is named to administer the estate. If a person dies without a Will, the Court will appoint an administrator. Whether there is a Will or not, the assets of the estate must be determined and any debts settled. Berlinger & Small advises and represents an estate’s personal representative, family members or beneficiaries interested in ensuring that a Will is properly administered and that the deceased’s intentions are carried out. We understand the financial and legal issues involved and often save clients time and money in settling an estate.
Berlinger & Small advises the personal representative through all steps of the probate process, including:
- Preparing and filing a petition to name a personal representative
- Applying for federal tax ID number for an estate or trust
- Collecting and valuing the assets and debts of the estate
- Notifying creditors and other interested parties of the probate action
- Advising personal representatives on the actions they must take to fulfill their fiduciary duties
- Paying outstanding debts
- Paying inheritance and estate tax
- Distributing the estate in accordance with the decedent’s wishes
- Closing the estate and filing all necessary papers with the Court
A delay or mistake in the probate process can consume time and money and create liability for the person responsible for administering it. Our experience can help you avoid probate problems before they happen. Located in Abington, we serve clients in estate planning, administration, and litigation matters throughout Montgomery and Bucks counties.
If you need legal advice call Berlinger & Small at (215) 366-2405.