The cost and fees associated with probate or trust administration vary depending on the complexity and length of the case. But we offer affordable flat-rate fees for uncontested probate and competitive hourly rates for probate and trust administration.

Every case is different, but we are usually able to help clients settle their estate in less than 18 months — in some cases as little as 6 to 12 months. Our goal is to work efficiently and help you settle both quickly and fairly. While other attorneys might allow your case to drag out as they continue to charge you, we want to help you and your family close this chapter as soon as possible.

No, you are not personally liable for the debts and expenses of the estate. The decedent’s assets will be used to pay valid debts and expenses, but not all claims are valid. We determine which debts and expenses must be paid and when to pay them.

If you prefer, we can handle all uncomfortable communications with family members or involved parties during the trust or estate administration, informing or explaining what they will or will not receive from the estate.

Avoiding probate might be an option for those planning for the future, but it's important to recognize that it may not be an option if you're dealing with a recent loss.

For those looking ahead, creating a living trust, designating beneficiaries on accounts, and utilizing joint ownership may bypass the probate process, ensuring a smoother transition of assets; however, it is important to work with an experienced estate planning attorney to ensure you create a plan that will work when you need it. If you're currently facing the probate process, our experienced team is here to guide you through each step, providing support and expertise to make the journey as straightforward as possible.

You can learn more about our estate planning services here.

The purpose of probate is to settle a deceased individual's estate through the probate court. It involves validating the decedent's will, appointing someone to manage the estate (the personal representative), paying the estate's debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the rightful heirs. The process also includes handling legal matters such as settling liabilities, transferring ownership of assets, and formally closing the estate.

Formal Probate 



Formal probate is often necessary when there are questions about the will or if an Administrator needs to be appointed by a judge. Once the Administrator is appointed, the process may become relatively unsupervised, allowing for more flexibility. It's a blend of structure and autonomy that can suit various situations. 


Supervised Probate

For complex or contentious situations, the court oversees everything. It's thorough and ensures that everything is done by the book, but it can be quite involved. 



Small Estate Affidavits

If the estate's value is below certain limits, you might qualify for this more streamlined process. It's a helpful option for smaller estates but still requires careful attention to detail.

Intestate Administration



Intestate means the decedent passed away without a will. The time for an intestate administration depends on the complexity of the estate and family dynamics.