Top Phoenix, AZ Probate Lawyers Near You
Christopher D. Graham, P.L.L.C.
Probate Lawyers | Serving Phoenix, AZ
You and Your Family Can Afford Quality Guidance. Call My Office Now.
Free Consultation
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Windrose Law Center, PLC
Probate Lawyers | Scottsdale Office | Serving Phoenix, AZ
View ProfileClients who need legal help with Probate concerns can contact Windrose Law Center, PLC, a reputable law firm in Phoenix, Arizona.
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Christopher D. Graham. P.L.L.C.
Probate Lawyers | Gilbert Office | Serving Phoenix, AZ
View ProfileAssisting with Probate issues in Phoenix and across Arizona.
Free Consultation
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McDonald Warner, A Probate Law Firm
Probate Lawyers | Phoenix Office
View ProfileContact McDonald Warner, A Probate Law Firm in Phoenix, Arizona for experienced legal assistance in Probate.
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Windrose Law Center, PLC
Probate Lawyers | Phoenix Office
View ProfileWindrose Law Center, PLC has experience helping clients with their Probate needs in Phoenix, Arizona.
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Phoenix Probate Information
Lead Counsel Verified Attorneys In Phoenix
Lead Counsel independently verifies Probate attorneys in Phoenix by conferring with Arizona bar associations and conducting annual reviews to confirm that an attorney practices in their advertised practice areas and possesses a valid bar license for the appropriate jurisdictions.
Find a Probate Attorney near Phoenix
Understanding Probate
When an individual dies leaving a will, the legal process that takes place is called probate. Probate refers to how an estate is administered and processed through the legal system.
Probate Lawyers
The probate process can be confusing and overwhelming considering the circumstances. A Phoenix probate lawyer will help with the management of the decedent’s estate, any trusts he or she may have as well as any guardianships or conservatorships in question.
Probate cases often become very detailed and a probate lawyer will help ensure the rights of the deceased are fully protected. Attorneys also have the sensitivity to family dynamics and are knowledgeable in common problems with probate cases.
What is probate?
Probate is the process through which assets from a deceased person’s estate are transferred to beneficiaries, such as spouses, children, and other loved ones. In plain terms, reading a person’s will and distributing the items contained in it is part of the probate process. In some states, probate courts also handle matters related to guardianships and conservatorships of children or disabled adults.What happens if you don’t do probate?
Without an estate plan in place, the probate process will often still go forward, but it can get messier. Someone who dies without a will in place will often have their assets given to any survivors, even if that would have gone against their wishes. Court battles can unfold among relatives who feel like they deserve more.How long does probate take?
In a simple case where there are no disputes, and the deceased had a strong plan in place, the probate process of distributing assets and paying off debts may only take a few months to complete. If someone challenges the will or any other part of the estate distribution, it can take much longer.How can you avoid probate?
If you want your beneficiaries to avoid the hassle of probate, you have several options. You can make sure to name beneficiaries of bank accounts, retirement accounts, and life insurance policies. You could also move your assets to a living trust, which will allow you to access them while you are still alive but will automatically pass to your beneficiaries upon your death.Best Time to Seek Legal Help
No matter what your legal issue may be, it is always best to seek legal help early in the process. An attorney can help secure what is likely to be the best possible outcome for your situation and avoid both unnecessary complications or errors.
How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation
Prepare for your consultation by writing down notes of your understanding of the case, jot down questions and concerns for the attorney, and gather your documents. Remember that you are trying to get a sense of whether the attorney has your trust and can help you address your legal issues. Questions should include how the attorney intends to resolve your issue, how many years he/she has been practicing law and specifically practicing in your area, as well as how many cases similar to yours the attorney has handled. It can also be helpful to broach the subject of fees so that you understand the likely cost and structure of your representation by a specific attorney and/or legal team.
How to Find the Right Attorney
- Determine the area of law that relates to your issue. Attorneys specialize in specific practice areas around legal issues within the broad field of law.
- Seek out recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues. A successful attorney or practice will typically have many satisfied clients.
- Set up consultation appointments to get a better understanding of your case as well as gauge your comfort level with different attorneys. Find the attorney who is the right fit for your needs.
Common legal terms explained
Affidavit – A sworn written statement made under oath. An affidavit is meant to be a supporting document to the court assisting in the verification of certain facts. An affidavit may or may not require notarization.