The death of a loved one can be an emotional time for many people. It can become especially frustrating if you run into problems with carrying out the last will and testament of the deceased person. Though you want everything to run smoothly, it doesn’t always happen this way. If you are experiencing problems with your loved one’s estate, it may be time to consider hiring a probate lawyer. If you’re not sure whether you should be talking to a probate lawyer about your particular case, take a look at these three situations in which a probate attorney in Chicago would be helpful.
Family Disputes
Many people think that the existence of a last will and testament means all estate issues were already settled before the time of death. However, it is possible for family members to contest a will if they have a strong case for doing so. If one of your family members plans to do this, talk to a lawyer right away. A qualified probate attorney will be able to give you sound advice on what your next steps should be, and may be able to keep your family out of a costly court battle.
Uncommon Assets
Probate law is straightforward when it comes to things like homes and bank accounts. Things get much more complicated if the deceased person has left behind a business or income property. These things cannot simply be sold or given away, and may present ongoing issues for the family. In these cases, it’s a good idea to hire a probate lawyer to help you in the process of selling or managing the business or property.
Debts
In some cases, you may find that your loved one did not leave behind sufficient funds to pay off any debts or taxes that were owed during their lifetime. It’s important to understand that there are laws surrounding debt payment in this case, and you must pay some creditors before considering others. Make sure you consult with a probate lawyer before dispensing any funds to make sure you are doing things correctly.
A good probate attorney in Chicago can be a source of sound advice during your time of grieving. Instead of enduring the estate settlement process alone, make sure you speak with a lawyer who can help you properly maintain your loved one’s legacy and your family’s peace of mind.
The attorneys of Starr, Bejgiert, Zink & Rowells offer expert representation in the area of probate law. When you need a probate attorney in Chicago, you can turn to our trusted attorneys who have more than 80 years of combined experience.
