At Thomas, Fisher & Edwards, P.A., our team of experienced attorneys and dedicated staff provide a wide array of probate and estate administration services. The estate administration process (or probate process) is oftentimes a daunting experience for many families. If you (or your family) are currently undertaking the probate process alone, we have the expertise and capability to assist and guide you the entire way. Whether you require routine advising on the probate process or interpretation of complex trust provisions, we can assist you. Family members serving as Personal Representative (or Administrator) or Trustee are oftentimes unaware of the fiduciary duties they may owe to the beneficiaries of an estate or trust. Our team of attorneys can guide you and your family through the proper exercise and discharge of such fiduciary duties.
Furthermore, we understand the difficulties families feel after the death of a loved one and are ready to ensure a smooth probate process for you and your family. Some, but not all, of the estate administration services our team can provide include:
- Preparation of probate court filings, including, but not limited to, petitions appointing a Personal Representative (or Administrator), inventories, and accounting;
- Advising Personal Representatives and Trustees regarding their fiduciary duties to family members and other heirs or beneficiaries;
- Advising clients regarding the implementation or interpretation of provisions in wills and trusts;
- Guidance and assistance in establishing and administering trusts; and
- Preparation of Form 706 Federal Estate Tax Returns, including returns for the “portability” of unused estate tax exemption.
Beyond probate and estate administration, our attorneys have tax expertise and can assist in structuring estate and trust transactions in an effort to efficiently account for taxes and to facilitate multi-generational family planning. Furthermore, our attorneys can address any potential creditors’ claims against the estate and help advise families where a decedent dies without a will.
If you or a family member is currently involved in the probate or estate administration process we encourage you to contact our office and discuss your options today.