When a loved one dies, their estate goes through the probate process, and this is necessary regardless of the individual’s financial status. Upon dying, estate taxes will have to be paid and creditors are permitted to seek final payments to cover outstanding debts. This is a complicated process, but it’s a little easier for the executor of the estate to handle when they hire a probate lawyer in Miami FL.
Speed Up the Process
In many cases, it can take more than a year to fully settle probate matters. The problem with this is that the heirs named in the will cannot receive their bequeathments until after the probate process has been completed. An attorney can help to speed up this process so the terms of the will can be executed sooner.
Protect the Assets
Settling final taxes and debts is complex especially since the executor will have to go through the deceased individual’s documents to verify claims against the estate. Additionally, there’s the process of valuing the estate. The complexities involved in this process can result in costly mistakes, but a probate lawyer can help the executor handle these matters more accurately.
Avoid Family Disputes
A probate lawyer in Miami FL, will also prove beneficial in dealing with other family members. If there’s a dispute over assets, the attorney can serve as an unbiased third-party who will be able to verify the terms of the will. This can help the executor avoid costly legal battles that would otherwise cause further complications in settling the estate.