After your loved ones pass and leave their estate to you or your family members, how do you ensure everything is distributed as detailed by the deceased? This is where you consult a probate lawyer. 

Working with a probate lawyer ensures the state taxes are paid as expected and eliminates the guesswork. 

Settle Debts 

If the deceased had any debts such as medical bills, creditors will come to collect. Typically, these debts are settled using proceeds from the estate. Although it sounds easy, it's not. It can take months or even years to liquidate part of an estate.

The creditors will keep nagging the estate administrator to settle the debts. The second problem is that you'll have to go through the deceased's bank accounts, assets, and checkbooks to verify that there's enough to settle the debts. 

If the assets and funds available are not enough to settle the debts, what do you do? This is where a probate law attorney would be an asset. The attorney might recommend that you set up an estate account. This account will settle debts, bills, and any other expenses. 

Also, if the assets aren't sufficient to pay outstanding debts, the probate lawyer will guide you on what to do next. In such cases, the state tends to prioritize creditor claims. 

Reduce Family Conflict 

The death of a loved one always comes with tons of emotions. This is often exacerbated during the distribution of proceeds from the deceased's estate. Everyone thinks they should be in charge of the estate and decide who gets what. 

If such arrangements are allowed, you're bound to run into family conflicts. An easier alternative is to work with a probate lawyer. Consider the probate law attorney as an impartial party whose sole purpose is to ensure the estate is handled smoothly. 

Secure All Assets

Even as an administrator, you might not have all the information about the deceased's assets. For example, the deceased might have bought property or invested in a business or company before their demise. 

If they didn't update their will or inform anyone, it will take some time to compile everything. A probate lawyer will help secure the different assets, even if they are in different countries or states. You'll need the process handled fast and efficiently. Also, if cases arise, such as individuals claiming ownership of part of the estate, the probate attorney will recommend the best course of action. 

Contact a probate attorney to learn more.