Probate Lawyer Mineral Wells

You may not like to think about the future, but you want to make sure you protect and plan for your loved ones after your death. Your will is the most important document you can have. It provides you with peace of mind knowing that your assets and belongings will go to the people you choose. If you don’t have a will, or when a loved one passes away, you need help from an experienced probate lawyer in Mineral Wells.

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process that proves the validity of a will. In your will, you indicate how to distribute your belongings and assets after your death. As part of your will, you name an executor. The executor, also called the administrator, is responsible for carrying out your wishes according to your will. That person is also in charge of your estate and must act in your best interest to handle your finances. Before a will can be carried out, the law requires that a will goes through probate.

The Probate Process

The court oversees the probate process from start to finish. One of the first things that they need to do is authenticate the will. You will need to petition or apply to open a probate case as soon as possible after your loved one’s death. You will need a death certificate and the deceased’s will to open probate. If you indicated an executor, the court would appoint that person in a legal capacity to oversee your affairs. It is often helpful to seek guidance from a knowledgeable probate lawyer in Mineral Wells to assist with the probate process.

What is the Executor’s Job?

It is the executor’s job to oversee the testator’s estate following his death. The executor takes control of the person’s assets and is required to administer the estate according to the desires that are expressed in the will. An executor can act independently of court supervision, which can reduce the costs associated with probate. The executor must pay for the outstanding debts of the deceased before he makes arrangements to distribute assets. The assets must be  distributed as per the instructions of the will. The executor can oversee the entire process.

Why Hire A Probate Lawyer in Mineral Wells?

The probate process can be complicated, time-consuming, and sometimes confusing. An experienced probate lawyer in Mineral Wells understands the process and will work on your behalf to handle probate for your family. Your attorney will handle the probate and administration of the will process and will follow the law to ensure that the distribution of the deceased person’s assets is done by the will. If the deceased person did not have a will, it is even more critical to hire a probate lawyer in Mineral Wells. You want to make sure that the proper beneficiaries receive the assets and property that the deceased left behind. When you need help with probate, contact The Law Office of Mark E. Harden to discuss the details of your situation.