Estate distribution is rarely considered while grieving the loss of a loved one. However, you must decide whether to probate the deceased’s estate. Probate is the process by which a court formally supervises the transfer of an estate to its legitimate beneficiaries. Conversely, a will highlights the specific assets individuals inherit after the demise of a family member.
“A valid will is the basis or guide for distributing assets, but it must undergo the probate process. However, the latter is often lengthy and expensive. You need the guidance of a professional to make the process seamless and quick,” says probate attorney Samah T. Abukhodeir of The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm. This article discusses three steps you can take to quicken the probate process.
Engage a Reputable Estates Lawyer
Not hiring an attorney in probate and estate administration is a risky decision. A probate attorney can simplify the process and make it straightforward. You need an informed legal professional to guide you in the right direction. If you engage the right attorney, the process will be faster, and there will be a higher chance of a positive result because they are familiar with its intricacies. They understand the complex rules guiding estate administration in your jurisdiction.
Most estate lawyers deploy their professionals to help clients shorten the probate process. They will help you deal with family members and their representatives. You can trust them to collect assets, assess them, and handle claims. They will keep the court informed on all distributions. Engaging a probate attorney makes the process seamless and allows a legally informed mind to handle your case.
Research the Process
You must know your expectations to effectively speed up the probate process. Extensively researching the matter will give you an idea of what to expect. For example, if you discover it will take your bank about 15 days to work on the funds’ release, you will not expect your lawyer to handle it within three days. However, if it has been close to a month, you know there are issues and can ask questions to understand what is wrong.
When you know how the probate process works, it will reduce your frustrations about the system. You will liaise with your attorney to achieve the desired result instead of heaping needless pressure on them.
Quickly Begin the Probate
The sooner you commence the process, the quicker you can conclude the estate administration. While there is no general rule on how long a beneficiary can wait to start the probate process, you don’t want to be too relaxed when you know what is at stake.
Executors determine the most appropriate period to commence estate administration. Most executors initiate the probate process immediately after the deceased’s funeral, but some may start immediately after registering the deceased’s death and obtaining a death certificate.
If multiple executors are involved in the case, you must communicate appropriately with them to quickly submit their forms. If you fail to carry one side, it will eventually drag you back. If you do not want the process to slow down, involve all concerned parties from the beginning.
Concluding Remarks
There is no denying that the probate process is unpleasant and confusing. If you cannot appropriately interpret the estate administration law, you may end up working against your purpose.
However, involving a responsive and responsible probate attorney can be a game-changer. An astute legal professional can help bear the legal burden and handle the complexities associated with the probate process. Ultimately, they will help you speed up the process without losing focus on the primary goal.
You can enhance your probate process by adopting the tips in this piece. Hiring an attorney, researching the process, and commencing the process as soon as possible will help you achieve your desired outcome. You can avoid common legal pitfalls when you have a local probate attorney to guide you.
