Dependable Guidance From A Probate Attorney a Probate Lawyer in Centennial CO
The last thing anyone should worry about after the loss of a loved one is disbursing assets. A probate lawyer in Centennial CO may be able to help.
How Can a Centennial Probate Attorney Help?
Probate is the process of distributing a person’s assets after they’ve passed away. It can be a very difficult and emotional process, especially for those who were closest to the person in question. Unfortunately, though, probate isn’t something that can easily be put off, which is why it helps to have an experienced yet compassionate probate attorney on your side.
In Colorado, estates valued under $74,000 in total are considered “small estates” and do not require probate. On the other hand, larger estates must go through the probate process before the assets can be distributed – that is, unless the person who passed away left behind an uncontested will. If, conversely, they did not leave behind a will or left behind a will but no living trust, the probate process is mandatory.
Larger estates must go through the probate process before the assets can be distributed – that is, unless the person who passed away left behind an uncontested will. If, conversely, they did not leave behind a will or left behind a will but no living trust, the probate process is mandatory.
Types of Colorado Probate Proceedings
There are three types of probates: small estates, informal, and formal probate processes.
In Colorado, estates valued under $74,000 in total (including cash and bank accounts) with no real property are considered “small estates” and do not require probate. The value of the estate is adjusted every year, and this limit was set in 2022. To qualify, the estate has to meet other requirements as well.
If there is a valid will or clear intestacy, no contests are expected, and the qualified personal representative is ready to be appointed, then the probate process is called informal. The court isn’t as involved as in formal probate but ensures that the directions in the will or intestacy law are followed. Certain probate forms have to be filed with the probate court in the county where the decedent lived at the time of death, but certain steps can be skipped.
Formal probate may be required when a will is contested or invalid or when there are significant challenges, such as identifying heirs or all of the creditors. This process involves the most attention from the probate court.
Bear in mind that both the informal and the formal probate process can last for a minimum of six months.
Why a Probate Attorney Is Necessary
Since probate is considered to be an expensive, time-consuming, and complicated process, simplifying or trying to avoid the probate process is one of the biggest reasons why people make an estate plan. It serves as a type of road map for your family on how your estate should be handled when you die and can sometimes help them avoid the uncertainty and process of probate.
Just by reading about the basics of probate law, you’re probably already feeling a little overwhelmed. That’s why it helps to have a knowledgeable and genuinely caring attorney on your side – especially if there is some kind of disagreement among the heirs, beneficiaries and/or creditors involved in the affairs. The right legal professional can help to relieve some of your stress by taking that legal burden off of your shoulders.
Although you can file for probate without an attorney, it may actually cause more harm than good in the long run. You see, an experienced lawyer will know the ins and outs of the probate process, which can only help to ensure that nothing is overlooked, unfairly negotiated, or unrightfully claimed by creditors.
My Mission For My Clients
At my law firm, I’m not only dedicated to helping my clients resolve their probate matters in the legal sense, but I’m also invested in getting them through the process as quickly and easily as possible. Nothing can make up for the loss of someone you love, but a speedy, efficient resolution to the probate process can at least get your mind off of the legalities and back to what’s important.
If you choose to work with me, it would be my honor to offer you the professional service and compassionate counsel you deserve. I only want the best for you and your family.
If you choose to work with me, it would be my honor to offer you the professional service and compassionate counsel you deserve. I only want the best for you and your family.
The Support You Need
There are many challenges that come with the loss of a loved one, and the last thing anyone should have to worry about during the grieving period is how to disburse the assets. But with the right help, the process of doing so becomes easier. At Duncan Legal, my priority is my clients’ well-being. If you decide to work with me, I will put my experience, expertise and emotional intelligence to work in order to help you reach the best resolution during your difficult time.
Call 303-222-7021 or email me here to schedule your initial consultation.