PROBATE

It is understandably difficult to deal with the loss of a loved one while also bearing the burden of reviewing their assets and administering the estate.  Consulting with a caring and experienced New York Estates & Probate Attorney to discuss the handling of your family member's estate can be a ​relief ​during your time of bereavement. 

If your loved one passed leaving a valid Last Will & Testament, then you are required to file it with the Surrogate's Court.  This procedure is what is known as Probating a Will. Probate proceedings can be multifaceted and time consuming.    

   Step one is to ensure you are in possession of the original Will.

   Step two is to value the assets of the estate.

   Step three is preparing to file a Petition for Letters Testamentary which is filed along with the original Will.  This filing begins the Surrogate's Court the procedure of determining the legal validity of the Will and appointing the estate representative - either an Executor or Administrator c.t.a.  

If your loved one died without leaving a Last Will and Testament, then a Petition for Letters of Administration would be filed seeking the appointment of an Administrator.