Trust Administration & Probate

Proper planning can ease the process after a loved one passes. Following the plan can ensure the smoothest transition for your loved ones.

In the case of a properly crafted estate plan followed by the client, no probate is normally required. In the event the client has assets titled outside of a living trust plan, then probate may be necessary. For people who have done their plans using only wills, probate will be necessary. Even though we work diligently to avoid probate for our clients, we are knowledgeable and experienced in the probate process when necessary.

As with all planning at Stier Law, the key to successful planning is the identification of clients’ individual goals and objectives. Due to the complexity of these advanced planning techniques, it is important to help clients identify their true goals and objectives.

Stier Law has the knowledge and experience to recognize the need for advanced planning and tax saving methods, to devise and implement a plan to reach the clients’ goals and objectives, and to help clients understand all aspects of the plan.

What exactly is probate? The term probate is used to describe the legal process that manages the assets and liabilities left behind by a recently deceased person. The role of the probate court is to make sure that a deceased person’s debts are paid, and assets are distributed to the correct beneficiaries. Probate covers the overall legal process of dealing with a deceased person’s assets and debt, the court that manages the process, and the actual distribution of assets itself.

When someone dies, the assets they own in their role name only are essentially locked. Probate is the key that unlocks the assets so that they may transfer to the heirs. If you have a will, probate is necessary to activate your will. If you die without a will (or other estate planning), the state imposes a will upon your estate (referred to as dying “intestate”).

At Stier, we recognize that probate, while often avoidable, is sometimes necessary. With compassion and years of experience, we help our clients navigate the legal process probate requires.