Probate and Estate Administration

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal proving of the will as the valid last will and testament of the decedent or loved one that passed.  The process includes appointing or confirming the executor of the estate.  In Virginia, the length of time to probate an estate is approximately 1 year.  In some cases, a bond must be posted by the executor who is handling the financial matters.  At the end of the distribution of the estate, the executor must submit a report to the court of how the estate was “settled”.

What does it mean to die “intestate”?

Intestate means that the decedent or loved one who passed did not have a written will.  In the case where a person dies intestate, state laws provide for how their estate will be divided up by the spouse and decedent.  These rules have been developed over hundreds of years.  Unfortunately, they intestate statutes do not insure your wishes for your loved ones and your property will be carried out.

There is no reason anyone should have to leave the future of their children, loved ones, or their property in the hands of the state.  The experienced attorneys at Merna Law can get your estate plan in place so you have the peace-of-mind that you and your family are protected.

Schedule a free estate planning consultation with an experienced estate planning attorney at Merna Law today by clicking on this link. 

Call to schedule a free estate planning consultation with an experienced estate planning attorney at Merna Law today by clicking on this link.