Estate Administration

Probate, Estate, and Trust Administration

We understand that coping with the loss of a loved one can be difficult. Settling the loved one’s final affairs can be particularly unnerving in a time of already strained emotions. Estate Administration involves handling a loved one’s final affairs and typically requires collection of assets left behind, payment of bills and taxes, and finally the transfer of remaining assets to those entitled to them.

The instrument that disposes of property and the person in charge of such property can vary. Whether it be the Personal Representative of a decedent’s estate, the Trustee of a trust, the surviving joint owner of property, the payable on death beneficiary, or a combination of the same, we will coordinate all facets of the decedent’s final affairs to ensure that all tasks are completed timely.

Having personally handled the final affairs of our own loved ones, we understand this experience can be emotional and overwhelming. We like to use our personal experiences along with our years of assisting family and friends to make the process as painless as possible and take the brunt of the burden away from you.

When you meet with us, we will carefully examine your situation and recommend the proper legal processes. Too often, the process of settling a loved one’s final affairs can cause even more stress and strife within a family. We are always sensitive to these issues and will be fair and compassionate as we proceed to resolve your loved one’s final affairs as expeditiously as possible.

My business is a part of me. I celebrate my clients’ achievements, and I suffer through their losses with them. They are getting a full investment out of me when they hire me. I enjoy working with folks, learning more about them, and not just focusing on the situation.

-Jeffery D. Stinson, Certified Elder Law Attorney

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-Jeffery D. Stinson, Certified Elder Law Attorney

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay my deceased parents’ debts?

When a person dies, his or her estate is responsible for setting debts. By law, family members do not usually have to pay the debts of a decease relative from their own money. You generally can’t inherit debt from your parent unless you co-signed for the debt or applied for credit together with the person who died.

What happens if my parent dies and has no will?

When someone dies without a will, a surviving spouse or adult child usually has priority to open a probate matter as the administrator of the estate. Any of the deceased’s property with a beneficiary designation can be transferred directly to that named beneficiary. This includes property with a transfer-on-death deed and any trust assets. Any assets in the sole name of the deceased without a designated beneficiary are probate assets.

Do I need “Letters Testamentary”?

Not always. Indiana law provides that if the decedent’s probate assets are less than $50,000, no estate administration is required. In such situations, the beneficiaries of the asset can submit an affidavit in lieu of Letters Testamentary.

What is Probate? Do I have to go to court?

Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. A probate asset is an asset that is in an individual’s sole name and has no beneficiary designation. Indiana law provides that if the decedent’s probate assets are less than $50,000, no estate administration is required.

Still have questions?

Estate Admin Resources