Rely on us
Get an efficient probate attorney
If your family member or a loved one is incapacitated or dies, a legal process called probate may be necessary to distribute that person's assets to his or her descendants.
Probate is the process the court uses to supervise the transfer of assets from a person who has died to the new lawful owners. But first, the court must ensure that all of the decedent’s debts and taxes are paid.
The probate attorney at the Law Office of Sara E Faulkner works with the executors and beneficiaries of your estate to determine which assets belong to whom.
Is it necessary?
Even if the deceased person has drafted a will, trust, or other estate planning documents before his or her death, probate may still be necessary in that case too. Often a probate process is long and complicated. But, with our efficient probate attorney on your side, you will be guided thoroughly through the entire process. Contact our office today to discuss if a probate is necessary for your situation.
We will also ensure that the right legal guardian or conservator is appointed to manage your estate and finances.
How long does it take?
Probate can be relatively fast and inexpensive in some cases, such as:
- when the descendant had a well drafted Will, there is no real property at issue and there is no Medicaid claim
- where a surviving spouse inherits all assets and there are no child beneficiaries
In most other cases, probate is a lengthy process. Fees in probate include:
- Attorneys Fees
- Filing Fees
- And other costs such as a bond premium
On average, probates in Georgia take 16 months. However, uncomplicated probates with few debts, adult beneficiaries and no fighting can conclude in as little as 6 months, depending upon the court calendar. Complicated probates can last for years.