Probate Lawyer St. Charles, Missouri
Our Probate Lawyer St. Charles, Missouri estate executors, can turn to for help will tell you that the process of probate is often stressful. When a person passes away, the executor of the estate carries an important role. Resolving an estate can feel like a heavy load to carry, and executors should make sure that they are up for the task. Legacy Law Center is a group of lawyers who support those working to resolve a decedent’s estate when emotions can run high. There are many mistakes executors might make during the probate process, and, unfortunately, many challenges may ensue. To avoid the common pitfalls of probate, executors should take the time to contact a legal professional for the guidance needed during what is sure to be an incredibly difficult time.
The Role of an Executor
When a person is appointed as an executor, they carry the great responsibility of resolving the estate of a decedent in the way they would have wanted to. During the estate planning process, the decedent is responsible for outlining their wishes and appointing an executor who will oversee the process of carrying out these wishes and resolving the estate. This is a great responsibility, and before taking on this role, it will be critical for executors to carefully consider the magnitude of the role they are taking on. Our St. Charles, Missouri probate lawyer shares that an executor will be responsible for:
- Filing the will with the probate court
- Notifying credit card companies and financial institutions
- Representing the estate during probate
- Providing a detailed inventory of assets to the court
- Setting up a bank account for the estate
- Making sure all debts are settled
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries
In many situations, identified executors have minimal experience managing the estate of someone who has passed away. This can leave an executor feeling confused over what steps to take when resolving an estate, which is why it may be in your best interest to consider assistance from an experienced lawyer.
Common Mistakes Executors Make During Probate
It should come as no surprise that many executors are never truly prepared for the role they have committed to. As a result, it’s only natural that mistakes might be made during the probate process, including:
#1. Not having a clear understanding of your role
#2. Waiting to take action
#3. Not understanding your responsibilities
#4. Distributing assets too early
#5. Mismanaging real estate property
#6. Failing or delaying in consulting with a lawyer
Taking on the role of executor can feel like a significant undertaking. Estate executors have the great responsibility of carrying out a decedent’s wishes in the way they would have wanted. Start by reaching out to a probate lawyer for the assistance you need during what might be an incredibly complicated process.
Legacy Law Center has the goal of providing those managing estate planning and probate with legal support. Our team can assist you during an incredibly intense time. We are committed to helping executors manage the complications that can come with probate. Start today by contacting our St. Charles, Missouri probate lawyer for assistance.
