Estate Administration is the process of probating a Decedent’s Last Will and Testament or qualifying an Administrator to handle the affairs of someone who died without a Will. The administration is handled in the county where the Decedent last lived. It is important that the process be handled correctly so that all of Decedent’s wishes are properly realized. If you are unfamiliar with the Estate Administration process, you may find it stressful or confusing to have to address following the loss of a loved one.
We help Personal Representatives work through the process.
Executors and Administrators are also known as the Personal Representative of the Estate. With few exceptions, their duties and responsibilities are the same. If you are serving in this capacity, it is important that you understand your obligations and the ramifications of your actions. I, Stephanie Irvine, have handled estates for over 30 years. I am available for any level of assistance you may need, including Easy Legal Advice (LINK) by phone or email. I am also available to prepare the necessary paperwork for your signature and coach you through the process with the Clerk of Superior Court.
The estate administration process generally includes identifying and taking control over Decedent’s property, notifying creditors, paying claims, distributing the inheritance as directed by the Decedent and filing the accountings with the Clerk. Many different issues can arise during the administration including how to gain access to certain property, the correct way to account for certain kinds of income and whether or not the Personal Representative can sell property. You do not have to hire an attorney to handle the entire process if you only need legal advice on select issues.
Many of the forms necessary for estate administration are available online at the nccourts.org website. I am glad to help you to select and prepare the necessary forms or to prepare them on your behalf. I will give you a fixed fee quote to assist you with any portion of the process you may need.
We help Heirs to understand the process.
As an Heir, your only role in the estate administration process may only be to receive whatever property you are inheriting and sign a Receipt to be filed with the Clerk of Court. Depending on your knowledge of the Decedent’s property, the Personal Representative may seek your assistance to secure or value an item. The estate administration forms and accountings are public documents and heirs are encouraged to review them. The Personal Representative does not have any obligation to keep you informed as he or she works their way through the administration.
Do you want to understand what the Personal Representative can and cannot do? Do you question any actions of the Personal Representative and need to know your remedies? Do you think you have a potential claim against the Personal Representative? Do you need any of the estate administration documents, filings or accountings explained?
I am glad to answer your questions by email or schedule a phone consultation with you.
How to Get Started
Email me at info@irvinelawfirm.com and let me know some general information including:
- When did Decedent die and did he/she have a Will?
- What is your role – executor, heir, family member?
- In what North Carolina county did Decedent live at the time of his/her death?
- Is an Estate Administration filed in any County?
- Do you have specific questions or services for which you are seeking a fixed fee quote?
- Need to schedule a phone conference to go over your questions or discuss estate administration in general?
Estate Administration does not have to be difficult or stressful. Let me help you work through the process or understand the process. Email me at info@irvinelawfirm.com