Guiding You Through The Probate Process
In Colorado, the probate process includes several steps and can take multiple months to complete. When you are already grieving the loss of a loved one, the probate process can be overwhelming without experienced legal guidance.
Unfortunately, the reality of probate can be complicated because of the significant impact that it can have on families and other individuals after the loss of a loved one. At GEM Family Law, in Denver, our probate team is here to help you find answers to any questions you have about the process or about protecting your rights.
Experienced Legal Representation Can Streamline The Process
We have years of experience assisting clients with every step of probate and estate administration in Colorado. Using our knowledge about estates along with our courtroom experience, we provide valuable guidance in several different areas of the process, including:
- Initial court filings
- Creditor claims
- Preparation of final accounting and tax returns
- Closing the estate
- Estate and trust dispute litigation
Regardless of the complexity of the estate, we are ready to help resolve matters as efficiently as possible. Our estate planning and probate lawyers will guide you through the process and provide the support you need. When you have questions, you will get answers as well as guidance to help you make the right decision for your future.
Common Questions About Probate
Probate is often one of the most confusing legal matters that a person will go through. We frequently get questions about various aspects of the process, so we wanted to take a moment to address some of those items here.
What is probate?
In short, it is an accounting of the estate, where outstanding debts are addressed and assets are transferred from the deceased to the beneficiaries. It is the process that happens inside the court system to make these transfers official and final.
Do I have to go through probate?
If your estate has over $64,000 worth of combined assets, the answer is yes; you will most likely have to go through the probate process in Colorado. However, there are steps you can take that will make things go much more smoothly, which can reduce some of the stress that can arise.
Is probate expensive?
If done incorrectly, it can be costly, especially if there are any challenges to the estate. If you are a personal representative for an estate, having experienced guidance from a probate attorney can help you reduce some of the potential expenses that may result from unexpected developments.
Why does probate take so long?
It can take time to tie up all the loose ends of a loved one. Sometimes, it is hard to track down all the assets and debts of the estate. A comprehensive estate plan, which our lawyers can help you with, can provide detailed information regarding the specific assets and debts of your estate.
What happens if my loved one owns real property outside of Colorado?
Homes or land owned in other states will need to go through the probate process in that state. We can help provide you with information you can use when looking for a lawyer to hire in that location.
Fighting For Your Interests In Trust And Estate Disputes
When a loved one passes away, disputes can commonly occur when the time comes to distribute the assets and estate. People are often upset about the way an estate is distributed to various heirs, and this can eventually lead to expensive and time-consuming litigation. If you are the beneficiary of a trust or an estate, or an estate or trust administrator, our lawyers can help you understand your rights.
We have years of experience representing clients and families in all areas of estate and trust disputes in the Denver metro area. Using creative strategies and a forward-thinking approach, our lawyers understand what it takes to obtain a favorable outcome in a complex case. Led by our lead estate litigation attorney, Alex Kirven, our team is prepared to protect your interests throughout the process.
Personalized Legal Strategies To Suit Your Interests
Whether someone feels that the will or other estate planning documents are not valid or there is a possible breach of fiduciary duty, you need an experienced litigation attorney to help fight for you.
Our estate and trust litigation lawyers can help protect your rights and interests, including actions for:
- Contesting the validity of wills and trust agreements
- Trust litigation and disagreements
- Breach of fiduciary duty
- Defense of breach of fiduciary duty
The legal technicalities of an estate or trust litigation case are already complicated enough without the complex family dynamics that also arise. At GEM Family Law, our team understands how to help you and your family through this difficult time. With their tireless advocacy and compassionate guidance, our attorneys can help protect your rights and advocate for your interests.
Let’s Discuss Your Case
When you meet with one of our attorneys, they will take the time to get to know you and listen to your concerns. Every case is unique, and they will always tailor their legal strategy to best suit your needs. To schedule a consultation at our Denver office, call us at 720-443-4892 or complete our online contact form to get in touch.
