Losing a loved one is never easy—and when you’re left to manage their estate, the legal process of probate can feel overwhelming. If you’re meeting with our Kalispell, MT probate lawyer for the first time, you’re probably wondering what the meeting will involve and how best to prepare. The good news is, this initial consultation is designed to bring clarity, answer your questions, and lay the groundwork for moving forward.
Here’s what you can expect at your first meeting with our probate lawyer.
A Review Of The Situation
Our lawyer will begin by getting a general overview of the estate. You’ll be asked questions like:
- Did your loved one leave a will?
- Are you named as the executor or administrator?
- What assets are involved in the estate?
- Are there any known debts or disputes?
This conversation helps our attorney understand the scope and complexity of the probate process in your case.
Don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers right away. The initial meeting is a starting point, and our lawyer can help you identify what’s missing and what comes next.
Guidance On The Probate Process
Our probate lawyers are there to guide you through the legal steps required to administer an estate. During the first meeting, they will explain how probate works in your state, what the timeline may look like, and which tasks you’ll need to complete.
They may discuss key steps such as:
- Filing the will with the probate court
- Petitioning to be appointed as the executor
- Notifying beneficiaries and creditors
- Inventorying and valuing assets
- Paying debts and taxes
- Distributing the remaining assets
This is also your chance to ask questions about anything that’s unclear or concerning—from legal fees to potential conflicts with family members.
A List Of Documents To Gather
You don’t have to arrive with everything in hand, but bringing as much documentation as possible can make the meeting more productive. Our lawyer will review any documents you already have and advise you on what additional paperwork you’ll need to collect.
Helpful items include:
- The death certificate
- The will or trust documents
- A list of assets and debts
- Recent bank or financial statements
- Property deeds or titles
- Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries
Even if you only have partial information, our attorney can help you create a roadmap for gathering the rest.
Discussing Legal Fees
During your initial meeting, our lawyer will also explain how they charge for probate services. This could be a flat fee, hourly rate, or a percentage of the estate’s value, depending on your situation and the laws in your state. They will provide an estimate based on the complexity of the case and answer any questions you have about costs.
Moving Forward With Confidence
Your first meeting with our probate lawyer should leave you feeling more informed and less stressed. The right attorney will help you understand your responsibilities, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure the estate is settled legally and efficiently.
If you’re beginning the probate process and need professional support, contact our office today. At Silverman Law Office, PLLC, we’re here to make this process easier and to guide you every step of the way.