Estate Administration
If you have recently lost a loved one, you have likely encountered the word “probate.” Probate refers to the Connecticut court process of validating a will so an executor can carry out the decedent’s wishes, or the court’s oversight of an administrator settling an estate when no will exists. Whether or not a will exists, settling an estate can be straightforward or highly complex, and the person taking on that responsibility deserves the guidance of an experienced probate attorney.
Most executors have never probated a will before, and many are surprised to learn that a loved one’s will named them as the responsible party. When there is no will, the closest willing relative typically serves as personal representative, subject to the probate court’s approval. Few people arrive at this role with experience in tasks such as:
- Filing the will with the Connecticut Probate Court
- Obtaining court approval as executor or administrator, and posting bond if required
- Developing a strategy to settle the estate fairly and efficiently
- Locating and assembling estate assets
- Paying creditors and resolving claims
- Collecting amounts owed to the estate
- Opening and closing estate bank accounts
- Transferring assets from the decedent to the estate
- Paying current and delinquent taxes, including estate taxes
- Valuing, managing, preserving, and liquidating estate assets
- Locating beneficiaries
- Engaging outside experts when needed
We guide executors and administrators through the demanding work of collecting, valuing, protecting, and liquidating estate assets, and we work alongside accountants, financial advisors, real estate professionals, and appraisers when unique assets — such as antiques, rare books, vehicles, or other collectibles — require specialized valuation or sale.
Even in estates that appear straightforward, disputes can arise among beneficiaries or between beneficiaries and the fiduciary. Whether the issue is a will contest or a challenge to a fiduciary’s management of estate assets, we advocate firmly for our clients’ rights, in negotiation and, when necessary, in court.
