3 Crucial Roles Of An Estate Litigation Lawyer You Should Know

Death is inevitable; it is a part of life. When someone dies and leaves behind properties, many legal issues may arise out of their distribution. These problems may strain the relationship of the beneficiaries and create grudges. Thankfully, these situations can be avoided by hiring an estate litigation attorney. These professionals are skilled in managing and dividing the assets of deceased individuals. This article discusses three crucial roles they play. Keep reading to learn more.

1. Protecting Properties

Unscrupulous people may come forward to claim that a property belongs to them, especially if there are no heirs present. Such individuals usually use false documents to try and take over a shop, building, house, or any other property belonging to someone who has died. They may also try to sell the property illegally.

An estate litigation attorney can protect a dead person's property and prevent it from being exploited by fraudulent individuals. They'll examine every claim made to the property to determine its validity. If these documents can't be verified, they'll fight to ensure the property goes to the rightful heir and the funds are distributed according to the terms in the estate plan.

2. Settling Disputes Between Beneficiaries

When beneficiaries, such as children and grandchildren, fall out with each other over the distribution of assets, there can be sharp divisions. These disagreements can lead to the exclusion of one side from the estate, which can cause feelings of bitterness and resentment that can last for years. It may also invoke feelings of revenge from the excluded side.

Estate litigation attorneys can help settle disputes between beneficiaries and ensure that the estate is distributed fairly. If there are valid reasons why one beneficiary should receive more than another, they'll argue the case on their behalf. If there are no valid reasons, they'll negotiate with both parties to reach a fair and equitable settlement. These lawyers will also ensure the distributions are made accurately according to the decedent's wishes.

3. Organizing and Managing Probate Proceedings

Probate proceedings are usually lengthy and complicated. This is because they involve gathering all of a deceased person's assets, whether in the form of bank accounts, real estate, or personal possessions, and distributing them according to their will or intestacy laws. The process also often involves numerous meetings with creditors and other interested parties who may have a say in how the property is distributed.

A lawyer can handle all the administrative tasks of managing probate proceedings. They'll appoint executors, pay bills for taxes, utilities, and other expenses and distribute the property according to the will or intestacy laws. If the decedent left behind some form of a mortgage on their house, credit card payments, or unpaid hospital bills, these attorneys will ensure they're paid before the heirs collect their inheritance.

Estate litigation lawyers have vital roles in the probate process. Hire them today if you want the property left by your deceased relative to be distributed fairly and justly.

For more information, contact an estate litigation lawyer in your area.