You may wonder if you need legal advice to handle a family member's estate. Executors and estate representatives should consult a lawyer first. What does a probate attorney do? This is one of the common questions that individuals have. This post will detail who is probate lawyer and why do you need them.
A Probate Lawyer in Washington DC, guides estates through probate court. The professional helps families by settling several tasks an estate requires. The Probate attorneys assist you throughout.
An Overview of Probate Lawyer
A competent attorney who knows state law and probate court procedures is a probate lawyer. The professional is essential for estate administration. An executor need not give a probate court proceeding to a lawyer or seek legal counsel. You may not need an attorney if your estate is small and has no unique assets.
Need of Probate Lawyer
To evaluate whether you need a probate attorney, please ask the questions below.
- Does the Estate have Complex Assets?
Estates with common assets like homes, brokerage or bank accounts, vehicles, and household goods are easy to settle. Managing an estate with a business, commercial real estate, or other asset requiring ongoing care can be complicated. Professionals should be consulted when operating, appraising, or selling a firm.
- Do the Estate Assets cover the Debts?
You won't have to choose which debts to pay if you have enough money for final income taxes, last illness expenses, and funeral charges. Beneficiaries will get any residual cash according to the will or state law. If your initial research shows that the estate may not have enough funds to cover the deceased's debts and taxes, wait for legal guidance before paying any invoices. Certain creditors have precedence under state law.
- Does the Estate have a State or Federal Estate Tax Value?
You don't need to worry about the federal estate tax. Rarely, the estate must pay an extra state estate tax to the decedent's home or property. Only a few of the thirteen states that tax estates apply them on $1 million+ houses. If the estate must file an estate tax return with the IRS or state, you will likely need legal and tax advice.
How to Find a Probate Lawyer in Washington, DC
Knowing how to find a probate attorney is crucial if you need one. Research and thoroughly search for a probate attorney who suits your demands. One can get help from Washington Law Partners to find the best probate attorney. It is a law firm renowned for Community Lawyering In Washington DC. WLP offers highly skilled probate lawyers to manage family disputes. Book your free consultation now!
