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Comprehensive Probate And Estate Administration Services

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is challenging, and the process of settling their affairs can add to the stress. When you try to understand Georgia’s probate laws and the estate administration process while also managing your mourning process by yourself, it can keep you from getting the results you deserve. An experienced estate administration attorney can provide the guidance needed to navigate this complex terrain.

In Georgia, the probate process is governed by the probate code, which outlines the legal steps required to settle an estate. Joseph E. Williams Jr. is a Georgia attorney who can help you through all of the challenges involved with probate and estate administration, including proving the will is valid, gathering the deceased’s assets, settling any taxes or debts, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries.

What To Expect From The Probate And Estate Administration Process

When a person passes away, their estate typically goes through probate, whether or not there is a will. The probate process starts by filing the will as well as a petition to open probate with the related probate court. If the decedent did not have a will, the court will appoint someone to manage the estate and disperse the assets. An executor or administrator needs to manage the estate’s assets, pay any outstanding debts and ensure the proper disposition of assets according to the will or state law.

As your estate administration attorney, Mr. Williams can guide you through all of the legal requirements. He will provide you with personalized guidance, ensure all paperwork is completed correctly and on time, and resolve any disputes throughout the process. With his assistance, you can focus on healing from your loss while skilled representation is working for you.

Additional Information About Probate

It is common for clients to have questions about the probate process. As Mr. Williams represents you, he will also answer questions such as:

How does the probate process work in Georgia?

In Georgia, the probate process begins when the executor files the will and a petition to open probate in the probate court. If there is no will, the court appoints an administrator. The court will then validate the will and give the executor/administrator the authority necessary to manage the estate. The administrator can then collect and inventory assets, alert creditors to the passing, settle debts or taxes, and distribute the remaining assets to the designated beneficiaries.

What happens if there is no will when someone passes away?

When a person dies without a will, they are said to have died “intestate.” In such cases, Georgia’s intestacy laws determine how the deceased’s assets are distributed. The probate court will again appoint someone to manage the estate, who will distribute the assets and settle the other obligations related to the task. An estate without a will is different because the distribution process follows a set order of who will receive what inheritance, typically starting with the closest living relatives such as the spouse and children. This order of distribution can be an issue if the decedent would have wanted the distribution to go in another direction, making it important to have a will in place before it is too late.

How can an attorney help with estate administration?

An estate administration attorney can provide invaluable assistance during the probate process. They can help you through all the steps of your role as an executor, review any paperwork you need to submit and settle any disputes with beneficiaries or creditors. The assistance of an attorney can save you a considerable amount of time and energy. By letting a lawyer deal with the legal needs of a loved one’s passing, you can focus on your own grieving process.

Begin Your Estate Administration Journey With Confidence

Now is the best time to reach out to an estate administration lawyer if you are responsible for managing a loved one’s estate. If you are ready to discuss your probate and estate administration needs, reach out to Mr. Williams today. He is prepared to offer the guidance and assistance you require. Call him today at 478-741-0098 or email him here to schedule a consultation and learn more about how Joseph E. Williams Jr. PC can help you through this challenging time.