Probate Lawyer Ames, IA

When someone passes away without having an estate plan, their estate may have to go through probate. This is a court overseen process that transfers the assets and settles the debts of someone after they have passed away. This process may change based on a number of factors. Some estates will follow the expressed wishes of the deceased if they left behind a will that is accepted as valid by the probate court. However, if there is no will present, the court is likely to handle assets based on the rules of inheritance. There are many steps involved in the probate process and we can help make sure that these are successfully done. If you are creating an estate plan and want to make sure that your assets avoid probate, our Ames, IA probate lawyer can assist you. Contact us at the Law Group of Iowa to learn more!

How The Probate Process Works

To initiate the probate process, a petition has to be filed to probate court. In the state of Iowa, this court will usually be in the county in which the person lived at the time of their passing. After a probate estate is opened, the executor or personal percentage will be appointed. If there is a valid will, our Ames probate lawyer can check to see if someone was chosen by the deceased to serve as their executor. But our probate attorney knows that the probate court will make the final choice on whether a will is valid and if the chosen executor has the ability to serve this role. The next step entails notifying creditors that the person has passed away. Creditors only have a set period of time to make a claim with the estate. If you have questions about this process, reach out to our probate attorney at your next convenience.

The appointed executor or personal representative has to file an inventory of the estate with the probate court that lists what belonged to the deceased person. As our probate attorney explains, if they have property on this inventory list, an appraisal may be required to assess the value. Along with the filings required by the court, a tax return must also be filed for the person who passed away, and possibly for the estate in itself. After these debts have been resolved, the assets are transferred to rightful heirs based on state law. A final report is submitted to probate court that shows all of the actions have been taken and the estate can finally be closed.

Our Team At The Law Group Of Iowa

The probate process can be expensive and time-consuming. Many people prefer to develop estate plans that prevent their assets from undergoing probate. But if you need assistance as a probate matter is proceeding, we can offer guidance. At the Law Group of Iowa, we can use our legal knowledge for your ultimate benefit. We have your best of interest in mind at all times. If you want to learn more about our estate planning services, contact our Ames probate lawyer today for a consultation appointment! We hope to hear from you soon.

Types Of Probate Services We Offer

At Law Group of Iowa, we provide probate services that help families handle the legal steps that follow the loss of a loved one. The probate process can involve many different tasks, from settling debts to transferring property. We focus on giving clients clear information and steady support as we move through each stage. With 17+ years of experience in probate and estate planning, we’re ready to walk you through your next steps. Contact us today, and see how an Ames, IA probate lawyer from our team can help.

Estate Administration

As your executor lawyer, we’ll guide you through the process of collecting assets, paying debts, and distributing property according to the will or state law. Our goal is to make sure the estate is handled properly and in accordance with legal requirements.

Asset Distribution

Proper distribution of assets is a major part of probate. Your Ames probate lawyer can assist with identifying beneficiaries and making sure property is transferred as intended under the will or through court direction.

Will Validation

Before a will can be carried out, it must be proven valid in probate court. We represent clients in the validation process and address any challenges that may arise.

Guardianship Matters

When a minor or incapacitated adult needs a guardian, probate court may step in. As your trust execution lawyer, we’ll handle petitions for guardianship and help you secure legal authority to provide care and make decisions.

Conservatorship

In some situations, a conservator is appointed to manage financial affairs for someone who cannot do so themselves. We assist with conservatorship petitions and guide clients through their responsibilities once appointed.

Dispute Resolution

Disputes among beneficiaries can delay the probate process. We handle cases involving will contests, disagreements over property, or challenges to fiduciary duties, always with a focus on protecting our clients’ interests.

Trust Administration Support

While trusts often operate outside of probate, courts may still be involved in some cases. We assist trustees with their duties and provide representation if questions or disputes arise.

Small Estate Proceedings

Not every estate requires a lengthy process. When applicable, your estate executor lawyer can guide you through simplified procedures that allow property to be transferred more quickly.

Creditor Claims

Probate requires that valid debts be addressed. We assist in reviewing claims made by creditors, determining their validity, and protecting estate assets when disputes occur.

Tax Matters In Probate

Taxes may come into play during probate, depending on the size and nature of the estate. We help identify any obligations and work to resolve them as part of the overall process.

Contact Us Today

The probate process covers a wide range of tasks that can impact families during an already difficult time. Each case requires careful handling to protect rights and honor the intentions of the deceased. At Law Group of Iowa, we are committed to providing high-quality service that is straightforward and reliable. We can also assist you with other aspects of estate planning, such as living trusts and wills. If you have questions about probate or need legal guidance, contact us today to schedule a strategy session with an Ames probate lawyer from our team.