Probate Attorney in Massapequa
If you lost a loved one, you may end up finding yourself having to navigate the probate process if you were appointed the Executor of his or her will or you are seeking appointment as an administrator for the estate. At James J. Quail & Associates, P.C. in Massapequa, our probate attorney can provide the guidance you need to navigate this process as efficiently and effectively as possible.
Reach out our law office today at (516) 246-2449 to set up a consultation with our experienced probate attorney to discuss the details of your case.
The cost to probate a will or process an administration varies per estate. The legal fee is generally an hourly charge of $350 per hour but the minimum fee in any matter would not be less than $1,500 plus filing fees. New York State Surrogate Court filing fees are as follows:
Less than $10,000 $ 45.00 10,000 but under 20,000 is 75.00
20,000 but under 50,000 is 215.00
50,000 but under 100,000 is 280.00
100,000 but under 250,000 is 420.00
250,000 but under 500,000 is 625.00
500,000 and over 1,250.00
*If the estate includes real property, the fee is based on the value of the property and not just the equity
While the filing fee must be paid by the fiduciary, there are situations where we may agree to be compensated at time the probate or administration is granted.
What Does a Probate Attorney Do?
The probate process is notorious for its lengthy, complex, and labor-intensive nature. However, this does not necessarily have to be the case. With an experienced probate attorney on your side, you can field your way through this experience with greater skill and ease.
Below are some of the benefits you may reap from securing legal guidance:
- A probate attorney can help you mediate familial conflicts that may arise: After a beloved family member dies, conflicts may spark over the decedent’s belongings, especially if the decedent did not leave a will. Although not all of these issues are avoidable, an experienced probate attorney will have the experience, tact, and skill to manage these amplified emotions to smooth out the process.
- A probate attorney can help facilitate an agreement between heirs: Not only can a probate attorney help reduce conflicts, but they can also offer counsel to family members who cannot reach an agreement on how assets should be divided. It can be difficult for heirs to communicate effectively on their own, given the emotional weight of this situation, which is why having a legal advocate on your side is crucial for opening the lines of communication.
- A probate attorney can manage your loved one’s debts: People rarely die without any debt in their name. Your probate attorney will manage any outstanding claims and determine which are valid and which are not. In some cases, a decedent’s assets may be exempt from collection, so it is crucial to hire an attorney to ensure your loved one’s estate is not drained by creditors.
The probate process is incredibly complicated and, without legal guidance, you may end up spending far too much time and money in court. Let our team help you avoid these obstacles.
Reach Out to Our Massapequa Probate Attorney for a Consultation Today!
If you are going through the probate process, contact the experienced team at James J. Quail & Associates, P.C. in Massapequa. Our knowledgeable attorney will assist you with every step and ensure you go through it smoothly and efficiently. We understand how hard it is to lose a loved one and will help ease your troubles by providing the guidance you need.
Contact our Massapequa law office today at (516) 246-2449 to set up an initial consultation with our experienced probate attorney to discuss the details of your case.