Settling a loved one’s estate after their death can be challenging and complex. Our probate attorneys can alleviate this burden by guiding you through the process and handling all related legal matters. Working with our probate attorneys in Monument, Colorado, can save you time and money. It can also free you to focus on grieving and caring for your family.
Peakstone Law Group, formerly known as Patterson Weaver, is ready to help you navigate the probate process in Monument. We assist fiduciaries serving as personal representatives (executors), family members serving as personal representatives, and beneficiaries who may have concerns about the administration of an estate.
To learn more about how our law firm can serve you, contact Peakstone Law Group online or call today for a free consultation.
Reasons to Work with Our Monument Probate Attorneys
Peakstone Law Group has the qualifications necessary to provide legal assistance in challenging probate cases. Our team has over 40 years of combined legal experience. We have resolved thousands of cases for clients across Colorado and can also assist with settling affairs in other states. We can answer any questions you have and offer probate court guidance.
Our effective legal services have led to numerous awards and accolades, including membership in the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and an Avvo Rating of 10 Superb. However, what we value most is what our satisfied clients have to say about working with our firm, such as these example testimonials from past clients:
“My experience was exceptionally great. A very well-organized firm, experienced and professional. Customer service was excellent, and my attorneys (Troy and Patterson) were great. They were both very thorough and very experienced. All in all, I had a positive experience, and I highly recommend Peakstone Law firm.” – P.S.
“Patterson was a pleasure to deal with and was able to provide me with the best possible outcome for my case. Patterson and his team are fantastic! Patterson’s outstanding character and intellect have made him one of the very best Attorneys in the Pikes Peak Region.” – Brett
What Is Probate?
Probate is the legal process of settling a person’s estate and financial affairs after death. It involves having the will verified by the probate court, inventorying property and assets, paying outstanding debts, and distributing the remaining inheritance to the rightful beneficiaries.
The probate process is the responsibility of the personal representative (executor) chosen to administer the estate. That person is usually named in the deceased’s will. If no will exists, the court will appoint a representative, and Colorado probate laws will govern the estate’s resolution.
While some smaller estates can avoid probate, it is often necessary to administer larger estates. Probate is also needed when there is no will or potential beneficiaries dispute or challenge the will.
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What Does a Probate Attorney Do?
Our probate attorney in Monument can do the following to help families through the probate process:
- Present the will to the probate court for validation.
- Gather, protect, and inventory the deceased’s assets.
- Pay expenses related to the final illness, funeral, and burial.
- Notify creditors and heirs about the death and the appointment of a personal representative.
- Pay valid financial claims against the estate.
- File tax returns and pay any taxes the estate may owe.
- Distribute the remaining assets to qualifying heirs and beneficiaries.
- Close the estate.
Working with our probate lawyers can also save families money. Our firm’s probate experience has taught us that creditors sometimes do not adhere to Colorado’s strict probate process. Our legal team can focus on the proper handling of claims, which may result in more than half of the creditors not following through. You may be able to avoid paying substantial sums. These savings can make the cost of an attorney worthwhile.
Common Challenges in the Colorado Probate Process
Some challenges can arise during probate that can make having an estate dispute lawyer especially helpful. Common challenges include:
- The absence of a will
- A contested will or estate
- Difficulties in identifying or locating heirs or beneficiaries
- Issues with debts or taxes owed by the estate
- Family conflicts, including disputes or disagreements regarding the will or its validity
Understanding Wills, Trusts, and the Probate Process
Our Monument probate attorneys can guide families through the probate process and help carry out an executor’s duties. The wills, trusts, and probate process involves:
- Opening probate in court
- Proving the validity of a will or trust
- Notifying involved parties, including creditors, about the death
- Obtaining a tax ID number and opening a bank account for the estate
- Inventorying and securing the deceased’s assets
- Paying debts, taxes, and expenses
- Distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries
- Notifying the court about the resolution of the estate, which may include a formal hearing
If assets are held in trust, our probate lawyers can help the trustee distribute them according to the trust’s terms.
Navigating Probate Court in Monument, CO
Navigating the probate process in Colorado can be difficult, especially while you’re mourning the loss of your family member. Peakstone Law Group can provide compassionate legal assistance to help you through a challenging time.
Our attorneys serving Monument, Colorado, are ready to:
- Advise the estate’s personal representative
- File legal documents and represent you in court
- Assist with any disputes surrounding the estate, its assets, or beneficiaries
- Inventory, protect, and distribute assets
- Work to resolve claims on the estate for as little as possible, and pay all taxes and debts
- Officially close the estate
If your loved one passed without a will, our probate lawyers can guide you through the steps needed to close the estate as dictated by Colorado’s probate laws. We can help with the appointment of an executor and advise them through the legal process.
How a Probate Attorney Resolves Estate Disputes in Colorado
A probate attorney with Peakstone Law Group can help with every aspect of settling your loved one’s estate. From contesting a will to paying claims to distributing assets according to your loved one’s wishes, we are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and handle any legal complexities that arise. Our experienced attorneys can also assist with estates without a will. Let us help you build a case and secure the inheritance that is rightfully yours.
Contact our law office online or call our offices for a free consultation to learn more about our services in the estate administration process.