Jacksonville Probate Attorney

Most estates must go through probate after a person dies. This is a court-supervised process for settling a deceased person’s bills, paying taxes, and ultimately distributing assets to beneficiaries. At Ronald Cutler, P.A., we have helped many families and personal representatives with the probate process. It starts by opening probate in the appropriate court and filing the deceased person’s will. Even if a loved one died without a will, odds are you need to open a probated estate. Call our firm to speak with our Jacksonville probate attorney about what steps to take. We are happy to offer our services to anyone appointed as a personal representative or family members who want to contest a will.

Problems with Probate

Many personal representatives need help in probate. Certain problems can arise:

• Invalid claims for payment. After a person dies, their creditors can submit debts to the estate to get paid. However, you might have questions about whether a debt is valid. We can help.
• Liquidating assets to pay debts or taxes. There might not be enough cash in the estate, so you need to sell assets to raise cash to pay debts or taxes. Some beneficiaries will be upset if you sell an asset they were expecting to inherit. We can help you identify which assets to sell.
• Possession of estate assets. The deceased might have lent assets to someone, who doesn’t want to return them. We might need to use the legal process to regain possession.
• Safekeeping assets. You need to do more than take possession. You also need to ensure they are safe during probate. You might have to purchase insurance or pay for storage costs.
• Valuation of assets. The value of the estate matters enormously. You might even be able to avoid full probate if the estate is small enough (less than $75,000). We can help you properly value estate assets.
• Will defense. Disappointed heirs might challenge the validity of the will, claiming the deceased lacked capacity. We can help defend the will.

Many personal representatives feel overwhelmed. It’s natural to have questions or concerns. Let’s discuss the issues you face and determine the best options. We have broad experience in probate court.

What is Summary Probate?

You might avoid full probate by using a summary procedure. This option is reserved for estates that are $75,000 or less. You might also use a summary procedure when the deceased has been dead for at least two years, because creditor claims will be barred.

Summary probate is much faster, and you can save money if the estate qualifies. We can help anyone determine whether this is the best choice for them.

Speak with a Jacksonville Probate Attorney Today

Our firm is ready to assist families in any way we can after a loved one passes. For some, probate goes smoothly, but you should always secure professional legal help to deal with any complications that arise. Reach out to our firm to talk with a Jacksonville probate attorney in a confidential meeting at our office.