New York Probate & Estate Administration Attorneys

We represent executors, administrators, and beneficiaries in all aspects of estate administration, including:

Probate Proceedings (With a Will)

Guiding executors through the legal process of validating a will in Surrogate’s Court and administering the estate in accordance with its terms.

Administration Proceedings (Without a Will)

Assisting family members in obtaining letters of administration and distributing assets under New York intestacy laws when no will exists.

Asset Identification & Marshaling

Locating, valuing, and securing estate assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal property.

Creditor Claims & Debt Resolution

Handling outstanding debts, reviewing creditor claims, and ensuring proper payment in accordance with legal priorities.

Estate Accounting & Distributions

Preparing formal or informal accountings and overseeing the distribution of assets to beneficiaries.

Probate Litigation & Disputes

Representing clients in will contests, fiduciary disputes, and conflicts among beneficiaries.

Probate is the court-supervised process of administering a deceased person’s estate when a valid will is in place. The Surrogate’s Court oversees:

• Validation of the will
• Appointment of the executor
• Identification and valuation of assets
• Payment of debts and taxes
• Distribution of remaining assets to beneficiaries

If there is no will, the estate goes through administration, and assets are distributed according to New York’s intestacy laws.

We guide clients step-by-step through the process:

1. Initial Case Evaluation
   Reviewing the will (if any), identifying heirs, and determining the appropriate proceeding.
2. Filing with Surrogate’s Court
   Preparing and filing probate or administration petitions and required documentation.
3. Appointment of Executor or Administrator
   Securing legal authority to act on behalf of the estate.
4. Asset Collection and Management
   Gathering and safeguarding estate assets.
5. Debt, Tax, and Expense Resolution
   Paying valid claims, taxes, and administrative expenses.
6. Accounting and Distribution
   Finalizing the estate and distributing assets to beneficiaries.

We help clients navigate complex issues such as:

• Missing or unclear estate documents
• Disputes among heirs or beneficiaries
• Claims of undue influence or lack of capacity
• Delays caused by creditor claims or tax issues
• Out-of-state or international assets
• Fiduciary liability concerns for executors and administrators

• Executors named in a will
• Administrators of intestate estates
• Beneficiaries and heirs
• Family members navigating estate matters
• Trustees handling related trust administration
• Individuals involved in probate disputes

Estate administration involves strict legal requirements and potential personal liability. Experienced legal counsel helps ensure:

• Compliance with New York Surrogate’s Court procedures
• Accurate and timely filings
• Proper handling of assets, debts, and distributions
• Reduced risk of disputes or litigation
• Protection for executors and administrators from liability

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process of validating a will and administering an estate under court supervision.

What happens if someone dies without a will?

Their estate is distributed according to New York intestacy laws, and the court appoints an administrator.

How long does probate take in New York?

It can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the estate and whether disputes arise.

Do all assets go through probate?

No. Assets held in trusts, jointly owned property, and accounts with designated beneficiaries may pass outside of probate.

What are the responsibilities of an executor?

Executors must collect assets, pay debts and taxes, maintain records, and distribute the estate according to the will.