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Mirick O'Connell's Trusts and Estates Team

is here for you at every stage of your life.

We counsel individuals and families in all matters concerning estate, gift, charitable and fiduciary income tax planning. Our attorneys have extensive experience in drafting sophisticated estate planning documents, implementing wealth transfer strategies, and managing estates upon an individual's death.

Episode #3 of our

Trusts and Estates Podcast Series

is now available.

In this series, attorneys discuss considerations for various stages in life. We will continue to regularly share these programs.

>> The Long and Winding Road: What you can Expect from the Probate Process

When a person dies their assets pass to their beneficiaries; oftentimes through a court process known as probate. The process can sometimes be avoided with a well-prepared estate plan, but there are times it is unavoidable, so it's best to be prepared!

In this episode of On Air with Mirick O'Connell, Attorney Liz Newton answers the following questions:

• What is probate?
• How can you avoid probate?
• How do you begin the probate process?
• What are the three avenues to pursuing probate?
• What happens once the court appoints a personal representative?
• Is it necessary to close the estate at the end of the probate process?
• How long does the probate process take?
• Is the probate process expensive?
• Do you need an attorney to go through probate?
• Surprises and considerations when it comes to the probate process.

PROBATE AND TRUST ADMINISTRATION

The attorneys in our Probate and Trust Administration Group assume responsibility for the often-complex process of settling estates ranging in size from the relatively modest to multi-million-dollar estates. This includes the preparation and filing of documentation with the probate court, the collection and appraisal of estate assets, the payment of debts and expenses, the preparation and filing of estate tax and fiduciary income tax returns, post-mortem tax planning, and the distribution of assets to the beneficiaries. Our attorneys and paralegals have many years of experience in providing these services in a thoughtful and efficient manner designed to minimize stress on family members.

Our attorneys often act in a fiduciary capacity, serving as trustees of both revocable and irrevocable trusts that we help establish for our clients. In our role as trustee, we give personal attention to the needs of trust beneficiaries while paying careful attention to the investment of trust assets and keeping in mind the goals and objectives of the individual who established the trust.

TRUSTS AND ESTATES TEAM

Every adult should have an estate plan, whether single or married. Your Estate Plan should be reviewed at least every five years, or more frequently if your financial or health situation changes.