After A Loss, We Are Your Trusted Partners In Virginia Probate And Estate Matters

When creating an estate plan, many people do so with the goal of saving their loved ones time, money and stress. Unfortunately, many families must still go through the probate or estate administration process. Depending on the size and complexity of the estate, probate can be lengthy, expensive and frustrating.

The reassuring news is that skilled legal help is available. At Walker Jones, PC, our experienced and caring probate attorneys work closely with executors and administrators to settle the final affairs of their loved ones’ estates as efficiently as possible. From our offices in Warrenton and Rappahannock, our firm serves clients throughout Virginia.

Experienced Attorneys Guiding Executors Through The Probate Process

When someone dies having made a will, their estate goes through a court-supervised process known as probate. The person who has been named the executor is responsible for administering the estate, which comes with a number of important duties. These include:

• Probating the will with the circuit court
• Filing all required notices
• Inventorying and appraising the estate assets
• Paying outstanding debts and settling claims against the estate
• Paying all federal, state and local taxes, if applicable
• Distributing the estate assets to the beneficiaries
• Preparing and filing proper accountings and closing the estate

This list of duties would be difficult for most non-attorneys to handle, especially when trying to grieve the loss of a loved one. Our estate law attorneys understand the challenges you face as an executor, and they strive to take much of that burden off of your shoulders. Our firm can handle most legal work on your behalf, leaving you free to focus on taking care of yourself and those you love during this difficult time.

Assisting Administrators Of Intestate Estates

When someone dies without a will in Virginia, their assets are typically distributed according to state laws, known as intestate succession. The estate would typically go to the closest family members, starting with the spouse and children. If there is no immediate family, the decedent’s assets would pass to more distant relatives like parents, siblings or even nieces and nephews.

The court would need to appoint an administrator to manage and distribute the estate. Usually, a family member or close relative could request to be appointed. Administration of an intestate estate can be a complex and time-consuming process. If you’ve been appointed as an administrator, our attorneys can help you fulfill your duties, maintain full legal compliance and ensure that the assets are thoroughly cataloged and distributed properly.

Contested Wills And Other Estate Litigation

When a dispute arises over the terms of a will, an heir or beneficiary may consider filing a legal proceeding referred to as a will contest. Someone might allege that the will wasn’t executed properly, the person making the will received undue influence from someone else or was mentally incapacitated at the time the will was drafted.

Because will contests and other litigated estate disputes can be expensive and stressful, our attorneys encourage disputing parties to reach a negotiated settlement. When this isn’t possible, however, our team is fully prepared to pursue or defend your interests in the courtroom.

Learn How We Can Help Your Family – Contact Us Today

To schedule your initial consultation with our Virginia probate attorneys, contact our offices in Warrenton and Rappahannock. Just call 540-595-3657 or submit an online contact form.

Meet Our Virginia Wills, Trusts And Probate Attorneys

Robert DeT. Lawrence, IV

Michael T. Brown

Hanna Lee Rodriguez

Anna L. Ritter

Walker Jones, PC, serves clients throughout Virginia, including Fauquier, Rappahannock, Culpeper, Loudoun, Prince William, Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Warren, Winchester, Frederick, Clarke, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, Madison, Orange and Albemarle.