A Seattle Probate Attorney You Can Trust

Dealing with the death of a family member can be emotionally taxing; and the thought of having the responsibility of winding up that loved one's personal affairs on top of the emotional challenges your family is dealing with can be overwhelming. That's why one of the most important decisions that you will make during the estate administration of a family member is entrusting the probate of a will to an estate planning or probate attorney who you feel you can trust. The Law Office of Matthew D. O'Conner is committed to providing comprehensive legal advice and representation relating to probate and estate administration to our clients. Our experience allows us the ability to execute the probate of an estate in an efficient and orderly manner which ultimately saves our clients valuable time and resources.

WHAT IS PROBATE?

Probate is a court procedure where the assets of a deceased person (the “decedent”) are divided according to the decedent’s will, or according to law if there was no valid will. Usually, an estate administrator (aka “personal representative” or “executor”) is named in the will, but if one is not, then the probate court will appoint one. It is that administrator's responsibility to identify and inventory the deceased person's property and have the property appraised. In addition, the administrator or executor is responsible for paying the debts and taxes out of the estate and distributing the remaining property as the will (of if there is no will, as state law) directs. Sometimes, the decedent owes money to creditors and those creditors have rights with respect to the estate assets which can complicate the probate administration. The probate process requires paperwork and many times, families may need representation in court by lawyers. Usually, the estate pays attorney and court fees.

There are several different types of probate. The type that is required by law usually depends on the type of property the decedent has left behind. In addition there are some types of property that can avoid the probate process entirely. For example, property or other assets held in a trust may be exempt from the probate process. But the best way to know the proper course of action for your family member's estate is to consult an experienced probate or estate planning attorney.

If a loved one has died and you need a lawyer to help you through the probate process, contact us and we will help you through this difficult time.

We will come and visit you if you have mobility or health problems that prevent you from traveling to our office.

Estate Planning Services
at the Law Office of Matthew D. O'Conner