The passing of a loved one can be a difficult time for family members. It is even more challenging if the deceased was not in possession of a valid will or trust to distribute their inheritance assets. This often results in disputes between family members and may lead to legal complications. Finding the best probate attorney can help to minimize these issues. Probate is a process in which the estate of a deceased person is settled by the courts to ensure that all debts are paid and the assets are distributed to the appropriate beneficiaries. It can also be an opportunity for family members to come to terms with their grief and any animosity that might have erupted during the grieving process. A Fort Lauderdale probate lawyer can guide you through this process to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.
If you are in need of a Fort Lauderdale probate lawyer, you can contact Attorney Brendan Davis at Davis & Associates Attorneys at Law. The firm serves clients in Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale, and its practice encompasses a variety of legal matters, including probate and estate administration. The team assists individuals in the preparation of a comprehensive estate plan, which includes the creation of a living trust and last will and testament. They can also draft powers of attorney and advance health care directives to facilitate the efficient transfer of property after death.
During the probate process, personal representatives can be held liable for any mistakes that are made. This is because they have a fiduciary duty to the estate’s heirs and beneficiaries. If they fail to meet this obligation, they can be charged with breach of fiduciary duty. Depending on the nature of the error, they may be required to pay damages from their estate share or personal assets.
The estate of a deceased person must pay any income, assets, or properties that are owed by someone else. This can include bank accounts, investment accounts, life insurance policies, and individual retirement accounts payable to the decedent’s estate. It is also necessary to settle any tax liabilities that have not been paid by the decedent. This can include federal and state taxes, as well as local real estate property tax. Having an experienced probate attorney in Fort Lauderdale can help to avoid these costly errors.
Schneider Law, LLC, provides estate planning and probate services in Fort Lauderdale. The firm can assist individuals in acquiring death certificate copies, locating a will, identifying owned assets, and filing an administration petition. It can also provide guidance on revocable living trusts and beneficiary designations.
Circle of Life Legal Services, PA, helps individuals in the Hollywood area with their probate matters. Its attorneys can assist with the issuance of letters testamentary, settling debts and taxes, and distributing assets. They can also provide advice on various probate administration options, such as ancillary and summary administration. They can also help with revocable living trusts, revocable trusts, and last will and testaments.