Estate Administration - Finding the Right Lawyer
Losing loved ones is emotionally overwhelming, and dealing with legal matters during this time can feel daunting. Estate administration — the process of managing and distributing a deceased person’s assets — often requires professional legal guidance.
Choosing a lawyer who can solve your concerns in mind, coupled with the requisite skills set is vital!
Estate administration is the legal process of handling a person’s assets, debts, and final affairs after they pass away. This may include:
- Applying for probate (if there is a will) or letters of administration (if there is no will),
- Identifying and valuing assets,
- Settling debts and taxes,
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries, and
- Handling disputes, if they arise
An experienced lawyer here could provide you:
- Guide on all the legal requirements and timelines,
- Prepare and file court documents correctly,
- Help avoid costly mistakes or delays,
- Advise on tax implications, and
- Ensure the estate is distributed according to the law or the will
How to Find the Right Estate Administration Lawyer?
- Look for Relevant Experience on whether the lawyer focuses on probate, estate administration, or inheritance law.
- Check on Qualifications and Reputation of the lawyer who you want to engage.
-Is there a website that can outline the procedures/process?
-Any past clients who is satisfied with the law firm? - Evaluate clarity of explanation and responsiveness from the lawyer.
-Steps involved? Expected timeline? Legal responsibility?
-Does he/she explains things in plain language?
-Do them keep you updated? - FEES.
-What is the fees structure? Fixed? Or by percentage of the assets?
What documents are needed to administer the estate of the deceased?
Well prepared documents will absolutely speed up the application process and lowers risk of leaving behind any assets:-
-Death certificate
-Original will (if any)
-MyKad / IC of executor(s) and next of kins
-List of assets and liabilities
-Property documents / Bank statements / Vehicle registration slip
*Estate administration might seems heavy but the right lawyer can always provide reasonable and sufficient guidance ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and help bring clarity during a difficult time.