Probate law is a complex and often misunderstood area of the legal system. At its most basic, probate is the process of administering a deceased person’s estate and distributing their assets according to the terms of their will or, if they died without a will, according to state law.
If you’re in Claremore, Oklahoma and you’re dealing with the probate of a loved one’s estate, you’ll need the help of a Claremore probate lawyer to guide you through the process. A probate lawyer is a specialized attorney who has experience dealing with probate court and can help you navigate the legal complexities of the process.
The first step in the probate process is to determine if the deceased person had a valid will. If they did, the will must be filed with the probate court and a representative of the estate must be appointed to carry out the terms of the will. This is usually the person named as the executor in the will, but it can also be someone else if the named executor is unable or unwilling to serve.
Once the executor has been appointed, they will need to gather and inventory the deceased person’s assets, pay any outstanding debts and taxes, and distribute the remaining assets according to the terms of the will. This can be a complicated and time-consuming process, and a Claremore probate lawyer can help ensure that it is done properly.
If the deceased person did not have a valid will, their assets will be distributed according to the laws of intestate succession. This means that the assets will be divided among the deceased person’s closest relatives, such as their spouse, children, or parents. The probate court will appoint a representative to oversee the distribution of the assets.
In either case, the probate process can be complicated and emotionally difficult. A Claremore probate lawyer can provide valuable guidance and support to help you through the process and ensure that the deceased person’s wishes are carried out. They can also represent you in probate court if any disputes arise.
If you’re dealing with the probate of a loved one’s estate, don’t try to go it alone. Contact a Claremore probate lawyer such as Todd Willhoite to get the help and support you need to navigate the process and ensure that your loved one’s wishes are carried out.