ESTATES & TRUSTS / ELDER LAW | Estate Administration

When a family member dies, the affairs of their estate must be administered according to state law. In most cases, the administration of estate affairs is overseen by a probate court. If a will or trust exists, a personal representative or trustee can execute the directions in those documents in accordance with applicable state law. The difficulties navigating the myriad rules and regulations regarding the administration of a decedent's estate can be daunting. It requires the assistance of a competent and trusted legal advisor to effectively administer the final wishes of the decedent. A properly administered estate will prevent legal disputes among children and other heirs or creditors of the estate.

Members of our Estate Administration Practice Area act as personal representatives of estates and complete all the tasks of administration, such as court filings, inventories, accountings, tax return preparation and distribution of funds. In some cases, we also serve as personal representatives or trustees. We also assist families in estate administration litigation, including Will contests and representation concerning the proper interpretation of Wills and trust instruments, reformation of trusts, and challenges to the administration of estates and trusts.