Estate and Trust Administration Services
– Law Office of Jennifer P. Heald
At the Law Office of Jennifer P. Heald, our experienced estate planning attorney provides comprehensive estate and trust administration services. We understand that settling the affairs of a loved one after their passing can be a challenging and complex process. Our goal is to guide and counsel you through the estate administration process with compassion, expertise, and efficiency.
Estate Administration
When a loved one passes away, it is often the responsibility of the grieving spouse or family members to handle the administration and disposition of their estate. This includes the proper management of assets, payment of final taxes and outstanding bills, and the distribution of estate assets according to the terms of the will or trust.
Probate of a Will:
Probating a will is a court proceeding required in every state. In Massachusetts, probate is necessary if the decedent was a resident of or owned real estate in the state. Administering an estate can be complex, but with the guidance of an experienced attorney, the process becomes more manageable. At the Law Office of Jennifer P. Heald, we are here to assist your entire family throughout the probate process, providing the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.
What if there is no Will:
If a loved one passes away without a valid will, their estate assets can still be transferred to their lawful heirs. However, without a will, you have no say in determining the recipients of your inheritance. In an intestate proceeding, the court will identify the lawful heirs and appoint a Personal Representative according to state law to manage the estate. To avoid leaving your affairs to chance, it is crucial to have a Last Will and Testament or Trust drafted. Contact us today to ensure your wishes are legally documented and protected.
Trust Aministration:
A properly drafted and funded trust can help you avoid the probate court process, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Upon the decedent’s passing, the successor trustee takes on the responsibility of administering the trust in accordance with its terms. This involves notifying beneficiaries, managing trust property, and settling outstanding debts, taxes, and final expenses. At the Law Office of Jennifer P. Heald, we provide legal counsel to successor trustees, helping them navigate the complexities of trust administration. We work alongside accountants, financial planners, and realtors to settle all final affairs, providing comprehensive support during this important process.
Liquidation of Estate Assets:
Settling an estate often involves the liquidation of various assets, including real estate, vehicles, life insurance policies, investment portfolios, retirement accounts, annuities, and bank accounts. These tasks can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with grief. Our compassionate attorney is here to assist you with these legal matters, ensuring that all estate assets are properly managed and distributed. We handle all legal aspects with kindness, compassion, and efficiency, allowing you to focus on your healing process.
Contact the Law Office of Jennifer P. Heald
If you require assistance with estate administration, trust administration, probate of a will, or probate without a will, the Law Office of Jennifer P. Heald is here to help. By serving the surrounding locations in Westport, MA, and Fall River, MA, we are conveniently located to serve individuals and families throughout the region. Schedule a consultation with our experienced estate planning attorney today and let us provide you with the guidance and support you need during the estate administration process.
Legal expertise delivered with thoughtfulness and compassion