Reno, NV Probate Attorneys

If you have recently lost a family member and are dealing with the complex process of sorting through their legal and financial affairs, allow us to first say that we’re sorry for your loss. We know how hard death can be. We also know that probate, which is also called estate administration (the Nevada court procedures involved with carrying out the contents of the will and distributing a deceased person’s assets to their beneficiaries) can make death even more difficult for the families involved. 

Whether you are the estate executor who is in charge of overseeing the probate process or you are a beneficiary who stands to inherit, our compassionate, experienced Reno probate attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options. Call today to request a consultation. 

Why Is Probate Difficult?

In a traditional probate proceeding, where someone passed away in the state of Nevada without having left a trust or an estate plan behind, there are multiple steps that need to be completed by whoever is designated as the estate’s executor. Typically, this is a close family member named in the will. They will be responsible for:

• Submitting the will and death certificate to the correct court, as well as a petition to open probate
• Formally notifying creditors, the public, and the heirs to the estate
• Caring for assets until probate is resolved (for example, not allowing the house to fall into disrepair)
• Inventorying all assets and having them professionally appraised
• Settling outstanding debts with creditors
• Filing final tax returns and paying applicable taxes
• Submitting a final accounting and petition to close probate
• And more.

There is extensive paperwork involved in probate, which is one of the reasons it’s so time-consuming. It can also be expensive, as there are many fees involved; while the fees are typically paid out of the estate, more fees deplete the amount that would otherwise be inherited. Any mistakes or missed deadlines can result in additional fees or prolong the already long process, which can take anywhere from six months to a few years. If creditors or family members raise objections to any part of the probate process, it can extend it even further.

That’s why it’s in your best interests to have our Reno probate attorneys on your side.  We’ve helped numerous clients in your shoes. We understand exactly how probate works and can guide you to the quickest, most efficient resolution possible!

When Probate Involves Litigation

In many cases, especially if there was no will left behind or if the will was unclear, or if there are complicated assets and family dynamics at play, it’s possible for conflict to quickly develop. Conflict can occur among family members who are beneficiaries, between beneficiaries and the estate executor, and even with outside parties like creditors. If the conflict can’t be resolved through amicable means, it’s possible that the issue may have to go to court – you may find yourself on the end of a lawsuit. In this situation, it is definitely in your best interests to work with probate litigation lawyers who can represent you in a trial, advocate for your rights, defend your actions, and ultimately defend your loved one’s legacy.

How Our Reno Probate Attorneys Can Assist You

At Sierra Crest Business Law Group, we have helped many grieving Nevada families navigate and simplify probate. We have over 50 years of collective experience on our top-notch legal team that can give you peace of mind. Let us help you move forward; call today to request a consultation and discover your next steps.