Distributing an Estate to Heirs or Beneficiaries in Moorestown

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Distributing an Estate to Heirs or Beneficiaries in Moorestown

Losing a family member or loved one is never easy. Careful estate planning can help ensure your assets are properly distributed to heirs or beneficiaries of your estate. It is important to sit down with an experienced estate planning attorney to discuss your options.

Navigating the estate planning and probate process can be challenging. When you work with an attorney, they can streamline planning for distributing an estate to heirs or beneficiaries in Moorestown. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Probate Process

Most estates follow the standard probate process. However, some estates may meet the requirements for simplified procedures. Generally, the essential steps of the probate process include:

Initiating the Probate Process

When an individual passes away, their will must be filed with the court in the county where they resided. The court will review for its validity and compliance with state legal requirements. Those who die without a will are subject to the state intestacy laws.

Appointment of Executor or Administrator

Next, an executor or administrator will be appointed to manage the decedent’s estate. Most often, this person is designated in a will.

Notice to Heirs and Beneficiaries

The representative of the estate must then notify all heirs and beneficiaries, including the decedent’s spouse, children, and close relatives, about the probate proceedings.

Manage Assets and Debts of Estate

The personal representative must determine the value of any assets, establish an inventory for the court, and satisfy any debts relating to unpaid bills, taxes, or loans.

Distribute Estate Assets to Heirs and Beneficiaries

After the estate assets have been identified and appraised and any outstanding debt is resolved, the executor or administrator can distribute assets to the intended heirs and beneficiaries in Moorestown.

Benefit of an Estate Planning Lawyer

When distributing assets to heirs and beneficiaries from an estate, the personal representative must adhere to the instructions in the will or intestate laws. The process may involve the sale of assets or the transfer of title, so it can be helpful to enlist an attorney to ensure all the appropriate measures are taken.

A lawyer can also offer important services to speed up the process, including collecting proceeds from insurance companies, paying debts and taxes, and preparing all the necessary paperwork for the estate. Hiring a seasoned attorney can save time and money.

Consult a Moorestown Attorney About Distributing an Estate to Heirs or Beneficiaries

If you need assistance distributing an estate to heirs or beneficiaries or want to discuss your estate planning options, we are here to help. Our lawyers will have the knowledge and experience to guide you through distributing an estate to heirs or beneficiaries in Moorestown.

Estate planning is the best way to ensure your property and other assets are distributed in accordance with your wishes. Our attorneys are trained to put your mind at ease. We will closely follow your loved one’s instructions in their will to distribute their estate and can advise loved ones of the applicable intestacy laws if there is no will. Contact us to schedule a consultation at no cost to you.