Following the passing of a loved one, the decedent’s Will must be executed, and their assets safeguarded. The Will, along with a probate petition and associated documents, needs to be filed in the Surrogate’s Court. The Court reviews the Will to ensure its validity and provides notice to the required heirs and family members as part of the probate process. Probate serves as a mechanism for enforcing the decedent’s Will and realizing their wishes. Although there are situations where avoiding probate is advisable, in many instances, it remains a necessary and protective legal proceeding.

Upon satisfactory completion of the probate process, the Court issues a probate decree, appointing the Executor of the estate and granting Letters Testamentary. These letters confer authority upon the Executor to gather and distribute the deceased’s property. With over three decades of experience navigating Surrogate’s (Probate) Courts, we are adept at ensuring a smooth and efficient probate.

Additionally, we will guide you on tasks you can handle independently and provide legal assistance for matters such as estate tax filings, asset inventory, executing receipt and release agreements for heir distribution, and addressing specific property and asset-related issues.