Bellevue Probate Attorney

Committed to Providing Compassionate Legal Support

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is emotionally challenging, and the complexities of probate can make this time even more overwhelming. After someone passes, surviving family members must deal with the aftermath of settling the estate. Depending on how your loved one plans for the future, the probate process can be pretty complex, so hiring a knowledgeable probate attorney is essential.

At Kirschner Rychlick PLLC in Bellevue, our probate team is dedicated to providing the support and guidance our clients need to navigate every step. Whether you need assistance with simple estate administration or resolving disputes, our experienced Bellevue probate attorneys are here to ensure your loved one’s wishes are honored and the estate is handled efficiently. You can rely on us to get you through this challenging experience as smoothly as possible.

Reach out to our probate attorney in Bellevue today at (206) 203-8802 to request a case evaluation with one of our probate attorneys to learn more about the services we offer.

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person’s estate, including validating their will (if one exists), paying debts, and distributing assets to heirs or beneficiaries. While probate is intended to ensure a fair and orderly process, it can often involve legal complexities, especially if disputes arise or the estate includes significant assets.

What Does a Probate Attorney Do?

The responsibilities of a probate attorney will depend on whether or not your loved one has a will. If there was a will, one of our probate attorneys could review it to ensure it was not written or signed under duress. Although there are many reasons why a will may be challenged, most of them go through probate without significant obstacles. A probate lawyer can advise the executor of choice on numerous legal matters.

If your loved one passed without a will, that person will have died “intestate.” Under these circumstances, the estate will be distributed according to intestacy laws, regardless of what the decedent’s wishes might have been. A probate attorney can assist the administrator of an estate in this situation.

Below are some of the responsibilities of a probate attorney:

• Collect and manage the proceeds of life insurance
• Find and secure all of the deceased person’s assets
• Have the decedent’s property appraised
• Prepare and file documents required by probate court
• Manage the estate’s checkbook
• Determine if estate taxes are owed

We understand how overwhelming it is to cope with the loss of a loved one. You can rely on us to lessen some of your burdens.

Our Bellevue Probate Services

At Kirschner Rychlick PLLC, we provide comprehensive probate services tailored to the unique needs of each estate.

1. Probate Administration

Our attorneys guide executors and administrators through every step of the probate process, including:

• Filing the will with the court
• Identifying and valuing assets
• Paying outstanding debts and taxes
• Distributing assets to heirs or beneficiaries
• Closing the estate

2. Will Validation and Contest Resolution

We handle the validation of wills to ensure they meet legal requirements. If disputes arise, such as allegations of fraud or undue influence, we advocate for fair resolutions while minimizing conflict.

3. Intestate Succession

If your loved one passed away without a will, we assist in navigating Washington’s intestate succession laws to ensure proper distribution of assets to surviving family members.

4. Trust Administration

In cases where trusts are involved, we provide skilled trust administration services to ensure compliance with the trust’s terms and Washington state laws.

5. Probate Litigation

Disputes can arise during probate, from disagreements over the will to challenges regarding the executor’s actions. Our litigation team is experienced in resolving:

• Will contests
• Breach of fiduciary duty claims
• Asset mismanagement disputes

6. Simplified Probate Options

Washington offers simplified probate options for smaller estates. We assess whether your situation qualifies and streamline the process for faster resolution.

Our Experienced Bellevue Probate Lawyers Can Help

If your loved one passes with or without a will, you must go through the probate process. At Kirschner Rychlick PLLC in Bellevue, our probate team can skillfully guide you through this process and make this situation as easy as possible. Jerimy Kirschner has been in practice since 2010, and our team has helped countless clients with successful results. You can rely on our Bellevue probate lawyers to provide the support you need.

Reach out to our law office today at (206) 203-8802 to set up a case evaluation with a probate lawyer near you.

FAQs About Probate in Bellevue, WA

1. Is probate always required in Washington?

No, probate is not always necessary. For smaller estates or those with assets held in joint tenancy, living trusts, or payable-on-death accounts, probate may be avoided. Our attorneys can help determine if your loved one’s estate qualifies for a simplified process.

2. How long does probate take in Bellevue?

The timeline for probate varies depending on the complexity of the estate. Simple estates may be settled within six months, while more complicated cases, such as those involving disputes or extensive assets, can take a year or longer.

3. What happens if there is no will?

If a person dies without a will (intestate), Washington state law dictates how assets are distributed. Typically, assets pass to the closest relatives, such as a spouse, children, or parents. A probate attorney ensures this process is carried out in compliance with the law.

4. Can a will be contested?

Yes, wills can be contested under certain circumstances, such as:

• Lack of proper execution (e.g., missing signatures or witnesses)
• Evidence of undue influence, fraud, or duress
• Questions regarding the deceased’s mental capacity at the time the will was created

If you suspect the will is invalid, our attorneys can guide you through the contest process.

5. What is the role of an executor?

The executor is responsible for managing the estate, including:

• Filing the will with the court
• Gathering and inventorying assets
• Paying debts and taxes
• Distributing assets to beneficiaries
  The executor has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the estate and its beneficiaries.

6. Can creditors make claims during probate?

Yes, creditors have the right to file claims against the estate during probate to recover debts. Our attorneys ensure that only valid claims are paid and that the estate’s financial interests are protected.

7. How much does probate cost in Washington?

Probate costs include court fees, executor compensation, attorney fees, and other administrative expenses. These costs are typically paid from the estate’s assets. The total cost depends on the size and complexity of the estate.

8. Can probate be avoided?

Yes, probate can often be avoided through careful estate planning, such as setting up a living trust, designating beneficiaries on accounts, or titling property jointly. We can help you explore these options to minimize future probate needs.