Probate and Trust Settlement

Greve Law, PLC helps take the take the complexity out of trust and probate administration. If you are becoming a trustee or need guidance through the probate process, we’re here to help. 

For assistance, please give us a call at (231) 571-0757.

Probate Administration

Probate administration consists of distributing the assets of a deceased person to an appropriate beneficiary. This process can be complex and should involve people who have experienced counsel for guidance. This is where Greve Law, PLC comes in. We can help you make important decisions quickly and wisely to make sure that the assets go to the right place. We will help you prepare necessary court documents required for filing for probate, offer accounting guidance, and keep the process moving forward. In the end, we can assist with distributing and dividing property to those who are entitled. We understand that this is a sensitive time and will be as efficient as possible so that you can continue spending time with your family.

Trust Administration

So you’ve become a trustee, now what?

We’re here to help. If you are struggling with questions regarding how taxes will be paid, how to deal with creditors, or ensuring that beneficiaries receive their distribution, give us a call as soon as possible.

We know that trust administration can be a confusing process, especially when you are still mourning the death of your loved one. We will educate you on any important deadlines while fully answering any questions you may have regarding your new duties or responsibilities.

Frequently asked Questions

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I have my parent’s will. Do I need to go through probate?

It essentially comes down to title issues. If your parent owned property that requires a signature to transfer title, the only person who can sign is your parent, who is now dead; or a person who has been given authority by Letters of Authority from the Probate Court. The will tells the court who is entitled to the property and who can be in control of administering your parent’s estate. There are some exceptions, but those are based on the size of the estate and what needs to be transferred. Set up an appointment to discuss your options

My parent had a trust. Can I distribute the property now?

It essentially comes down to title issues. What does the trust own and what are the terms of the trust? Sometimes trusts own many pieces of property, sometimes they only own one, and sometimes they own nothing. Many of the same rules that apply to Probate apply to trust administration. You are required to give notice to creditors, notice to the interested parties, provide an inventory, keep an accounting, and determine whether the trust requires long term administration or if it can be closed in short order. Set up an appointment to discuss your options.

Do I need an attorney to administer my parent’s estate?

The short answer, “no.” You also don’t need an attorney to defend yourself in criminal court, or to file for divorce, or file bankruptcy. But it’s generally not the best idea. Administering an estate can be hectic and time-consuming in and of itself. Often times you are dealing with funeral arrangements, cleaning up your parent’s house, paying their bills, dealing with other family members, on top of dealing with your normal life circumstances. Adding court procedures, and their often-confusing requirements on top of everything else is a relief we can provide. Set up an appointment and let us discuss how to take some of that pressure of your shoulders.

For any additional questions, please give us a call at (231) 571-0757.