Probate & Estate Administration
Attorneys in Branson, Missouri

If you have recently lost a loved one, you’ve no doubt heard the word probate used in relation to your loved one’s estate. Probate can refer to the court process of validating a will so an executor can implement the decedent’s wishes or the oversight the court provides for an estate administrator who settles an intestate estate. Whether a will exists or not, the process of settling an estate can be complex, so the person who assumes those duties needs the advice of a knowledgeable probate lawyer.

Probate Attorneys Guide You Through Every Step of the Process

Most executors have never probated a will; many are surprised to learn the decedent’s will named them as the responsible party. When there is no will, the least-reluctant close relative usually acts as personal representative of the estate, after getting court approval. In most cases, the party responsible for settling the estate has no prior experience with tasks that include:

• Filing the will with the Missouri probate court

• Getting court approval as an estate administrator and posting bond

• Developing the best strategy for fairly and expeditiously settling the estate

• Finding and assembling assets

• Pay creditors and claimants

• Collecting amounts owed the estate

• Closing and opening bank accounts

• Transferring assets from the deceased to the estate

• Paying current and delinquent taxes as well as estate taxes

• Valuing, managing, preserving, and liquidating the estate

• Locating beneficiaries

• Hiring experts, when appropriate

Estate representatives can easily make mistakes due to inexperience, stress, and hasty decisions. A good attorney will guide clients through every step of the probate process, with reliable, detailed advice, so you can settle your loved one’s estate as efficiently, quickly, and easily as possible.

Valuing Assets Within the Estate

The attorneys at Cantwell, Smith & Trokey, LLP assist executors with the arduous process of collecting, valuing, protecting, and liquidating the assets of the estate. Their team of experts is available to assist in every aspect of estate probate. When appropriate, the firm calls upon accountants, financial advisors, real estate agents, property managers, and other professionals to assist with executor duties. They can access expert opinions about unique assets such as antiques, rare books, automobiles, and other collectibles for accurate valuation, management, and possible sale.

Capable Management of Probate Disputes

Even in apparently straightforward estate cases, there are sometimes disputes among beneficiaries or between certain beneficiaries and the executor/administrator. When representing the estate or the estate’s fiduciary, the attorneys at the Branson firm demonstrate the utmost professionalism in negotiations and in the courtroom. Whether the issue is a will challenge or accusations against a fiduciary’s management of estate assets, they advocate strongly for their client’s rights.

Probate Attorneys in Branson Missouri

The Cantwell, Smith & Trokey, LLP attorneys have extensive experience advising clients who act as executors and administrators, and they often assume those duties themselves. Executors and administrators need sound guidance since the law holds them personally liable for losses in the value of estate assets due to errors or misconduct. Skilled attorneys can guide you through the complex process quickly and efficiently, so you maximize the value of the estate for your loved one’s heirs. Cantwell, Smith & Trokey, LLP provides probate court services in Branson and throughout Missouri. Call or reach out online to schedule a consultation. They also serve Stone County, Christian County, and the surrounding areas.