Who Do I Hire to Help Me Through the Probate Process?

Mon Jan 31, 2022 | Probate |

When a loved one dies and leaves a will, one of the first steps in proceeding to probate is to hire a lawyer. While hiring a lawyer isn’t necessary, it is often recommended – an experienced probate attorney can help you navigate the probate process as quickly and efficiently as possible, avoiding expensive and time-consuming delays. The question then becomes who to hire to assist you in the probate process. If your loved one died in the state of Florida, you will need to hire an attorney licensed in the state of Florida, ideally a Boca Raton probate lawyer. 

Do I Have to Hire the Lawyer Who Drafted the Will?

This is a common question and the short answer is no, you are not required to hire the lawyer who drafted the will to assist you in the probate process. In some cases, it may be impossible or impractical: 

  • The lawyer who drafted the will has retired or is no longer in practice
  • The will was drafted out of state (your lawyer must be licensed to practice in Florida)
  • The lawyer is licensed to practice in Florida but isn’t local (the will must be admitted to probate in the jurisdiction where the deceased passed away)

You also need to consider the complexity of the estate that is being admitted to probate. There are many lawyers who are able to draft wills but lack the expertise needed to handle complex estate issues that may result in litigation. Ultimately, it comes down to finding the right lawyer for you. As a result, you should feel free to speak with a Boca Raton probate lawyer if the lawyer who drafted the will doesn’t seem like a good fit. 

When You May Want to Consider Hiring the Lawyer Who Drafted the Will

All of that said, the lawyer who drafted the will can often provide guidance and insight into the estate that another lawyer may not be able to provide. They will likely already have knowledge of the estate, its assets, its creditors, and who the heirs are. They also know the decedent’s wishes, which can help avoid disputes over how to interpret the will. Furthermore, a Boca Raton probate lawyer will understand the local rules and procedures for probate in this jurisdiction. They will already have established working relationships with the court staff and commissioners, which can help expedite the process, saving you time and money. 

Need to Talk to a Boca Raton Probate Lawyer? Contact Ellis Law Group

The bottom line is that choosing a Boca Raton probate lawyer is an important decision that should be given careful consideration. At Ellis Law Group, we understand the importance of finding the right lawyer to handle your case. From simple probate cases to complex estate disputes, our team has the knowledge and skill you need to get results. To discuss your case and how we can help, call us today at 561-910-7500 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation.

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