Estates & probate
When someone you love dies, there is a lot to do. We guide the executor or administrator through the court process and close the estate.
In plain English
- Probate is the court process when there is a will. Administration is the process when there isn’t.
- The court gives the executor or administrator legal authority, called letters.
- Then assets are gathered, bills and taxes are paid, and what’s left goes to the people entitled to it.
Is this you?
Step by step
First meeting
Bring the death certificate and the will, if there is one.
File with the court
We prepare the petition and notices for the Surrogate’s Court.
Letters issued
The executor can open an estate account and act for the estate.
Gather, pay, report
Collect assets, pay debts and taxes, keep a clear accounting.
Distribute and close
Distribute to beneficiaries and close the estate.
Bring what you have
- Certified death certificate
- The original will and any codicils
- Names and addresses of close family
- Recent bank and investment statements
- Deeds and vehicle titles
- Life insurance policies and recent bills
Missing something? Come anyway. Full printable checklist
What affects the cost
Your fee is confirmed in writing before work starts. Court, filing and recording fees are separate and listed up front. How fees work
What’s included
Estate Settlement
Executors and families after a loved one passes.
- Surrogate’s Court probate or administration
- Letters for the executor or administrator
- Estate account and asset gathering
- Paying bills and taxes, accounting
- Distribution and closing the estate
Quoted after your first meetingCourt fees depend on estate size
Common questions
Who do you represent in an estate?
The executor or administrator. If you are a beneficiary with your own concerns, you may want your own attorney.
How long does it take?
Simple estates can take several months. Estates with real estate, taxes or disputes take longer. We’ll give you a realistic timeline.
Do I have to go to court?
Usually not in person. Most filings are paperwork we prepare and file for you.
What if the estate is small?
New York has a simpler process for small estates. We’ll tell you if it applies.
Ready when you are.
Call the office or send a short request. Someone from our Port Jervis office will get back to you.