Probate Law and Estate Planning

Probate

At death, a decedent's will goes through probate (also called Estate Administration). Probate is the court-supervised administrative process of transferring property at death pursuant to the terms of a will. It also includes the process of confirming the appointment of the person or institution named to administer the decedent's estate. If you don't have a will, your estate will pass to your heirs by intestate distribution under the law. Thus, if you don't want the state to determine how your estate is distributed after you die, it is important to prepare a will and other trust instruments so you can guide this distribution.

Probate Advocacy

Our firm represents clients at every stage of Estate Administration, including pre Administration issues such as what to do if the will cannot be located, how to collect and safeguard assets, and determining the proper payment of debts and expenses of the recent decedent. In addition, we represent clients who raise objections to the Administration process, such as will contests, and objections over the suitability of a proposed representative.

Estate Planning

We offer document preparation services to insure that your estate planning needs, goals, and expectations are met. Moreover, we have developed a network of other estate planning attorneys and financial planners that are available to provide consultation and advice on all of your estate planning needs.

Planning for the future is important and doing so now relieves your loved ones from the task of having to make these difficult decisions at an emotional time.

Document Preparation Services

Click on the items below to learn more about our document preparation services.

• Durable Power of Attorney
• Health Care Proxy
• Living Will
• Trust
• Will

Please Contact Us for a FREE 20-minute case evaluation and talk to someone who understands your estate planning and probate advocacy needs.

Testimonial

"My dad needed a will, but put off having it done until he got very ill. I talked to several lawyers before finally hiring Attorney Barbour. I liked her style and approach, and so did my dad. I highly recommend her if you need a will prepared." - WT - Lawrence, MA.