Probate Administration
Making Administering an Estate as Simple and Straightforward as Possible
When your loved one passes away, the last thing you want to worry about is distributing their property. But it is necessary. Our office will help guide you through the process of that distribution.
​
With the experience of our team of professionals, we will help make sure you accomplish all of the required tasks in opening and administering an estate. We have simple and easy-to-follow instructions for the basic steps, and our experience helps us advise you on the best way to approach potentially sticky situations with family members and close friends. And if your loved one’s estate was not large enough to justify a probate administration, we can help you economically navigate the small estate as well.
​
Did your loved one have a trust? We can help with that administration too.
Steps to Take When a Loved One Dies with a Will
When a loved one passes away with a will, taking the right first steps can help bring order and clarity during an emotional time. Begin by notifying close family members, friends, and any professional advisors, and obtain multiple copies of the death certificate for legal and financial needs. Locate and secure the original will, notify the named executor, and review the document to understand the deceased’s wishes. Funeral and burial arrangements should also be made, keeping in mind any instructions outlined in the will.
​
Next, identify and secure assets, notify financial institutions and creditors, and begin inventorying and valuing the estate. In many cases, the will must be filed with the probate court, and tax matters must be addressed before assets can be distributed to beneficiaries. Because estate administration can be complex and time sensitive, working with an experienced estate planning attorney can help ensure everything is handled properly. Contact Williams Law Office, PC for guidance and support in settling an estate and carrying out your loved one’s wishes.
Probate Administration Timeline
and Checklist
Probate administration in Indiana follows a structured timeline, though the length of the process can vary based on the size of the estate, the type of assets involved, and whether disputes arise. The process typically begins by locating the original will and consulting with a probate attorney. A petition is then filed with the local probate court, a personal representative is appointed, and heirs and beneficiaries are formally notified. Within the first few months, creditors are notified, estate assets are inventoried and appraised, and valid claims against the estate are reviewed and paid.
​
As probate progresses, any required tax filings are completed, and asset distributions may begin once creditor deadlines have passed. The process concludes with a final accounting, distribution of remaining assets, and court approval to close the estate. Because probate laws and timelines can vary and unexpected issues may arise, working with an experienced attorney can help keep the process on track. Contact Williams Law Office, PC for guidance and support with Indiana probate administration.
Executor Responsibilities
An executor, also called a personal representative, is the individual named in a will or appointed by the court to manage and settle a deceased person’s estate. In Indiana, an executor’s responsibilities depend on the terms of the will and the assets involved, but the role generally includes overseeing probate, locating and valuing estate assets, establishing authority with financial institutions, and keeping estate property separate from personal assets.
​
Executors are also responsible for communicating with heirs and beneficiaries, paying valid debts and expenses, handling required accounting and tax filings, and distributing assets according to the will. Because executor duties involve legal obligations and strict timelines, professional guidance can be invaluable. Contact Williams Law Office, PC for assistance and support in fulfilling your responsibilities as an executor.