Estate Administration Law

Estate Administration Law

Estate administration law involves the process of managing and distributing the assets of a deceased person, also known as the decedent. If the decedent had a valid will, the estate will be administered according to the instructions laid out in the will. If the decedent did not have a will, the estate will be administered according to the laws of intestacy in the state where the decedent lived.

The person responsible for administering the estate is known as the administrator or personal representative. The administrator has a legal responsibility to manage the assets of the estate, pay any debts and taxes, and distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries according to the terms of the will or state laws of intestacy.

There are several steps involved in the estate administration process, including:

Identifying and inventorying the assets of the estate

Appraising the assets

Paying any debts and taxes

Distributing the assets to the beneficiaries

In some cases, the estate administration process can be complex and time-consuming, especially if there are disputes over the distribution of assets or the validity of the will. It's important for the administrator to carefully follow all applicable laws and procedures to avoid any delays or legal challenges.

If you have been appointed as the administrator of an estate or you are a beneficiary of an estate, it's important to seek the advice of a qualified attorney who can guide you through the process and protect your rights. At Doucet Co., LPA, our experienced estate administration attorneys are here to help. Call us today at (888) 200-9824 for a consultation.