Navigating Maine Probate Law at VBK Law Firm
When you experience the loss of a family member or loved one, you are not only dealing with grief and other emotions but also handling the funeral arrangements, bills, and the management of the decedent’s estate.
VBK Law Firm can help you:
- File the necessary paperwork.
- Administer the decedent’s Will.
- Help you navigate the probate process if your loved one died without a Will.
- Create an inventory of the assets of the estate.
- Distribute property; and
- Generally, ensure that you have crossed all of your “t”s and dotted all of your “i”s along the way.
Our probate attorneys, Rosalind Prince Gilman and Lisa Kay Rosenthal, are compassionate, approachable, and backed by more than 40 years of experience in helping individuals through the probate process in Maine.
Our firm is small enough to feel personal and informal but large enough to offer the resources of a larger firm.
What is Probate?
When someone dies, “probate” is the legal process—overseen by one of the 16 probate courts in each county of Maine—that:
- Determines the validity of the Will (if there is a Will).
- Identifies and evaluates the assets of the decedent’s estate (their belongings).
- Settles any outstanding debts or taxes; and
- Ultimately, distributes the remaining assets to the beneficiaries according to the Will or the laws of the State of Maine (if there is no Will).
Do You Need a Probate Lawyer in Maine?
While it is possible to go through the probate process without the assistance of an attorney, navigating the legalities without legal counsel can seem overwhelming and present unforeseen complications.
There are many small details (such as filing an inventory, discharging the estate tax lien, waiting for the creditor’s period to run before distributing assets, and more) that, if done incorrectly, can have unintended consequences.
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VBK’s dedicated probate attorneys can help you with:
01
Dispute Resolution
Disagreements among heirs or challenges to the Will are not uncommon and can often be sorted out between lawyers to avoid expensive and stressful litigation.
02
Understanding Maine’s Probate Code
Maine adheres to the Uniform Probate Code, a set of statutes governing probate procedures. There are strict deadlines, procedures, and rules that must be followed in order to comply with the law. The expertise of our probate attorneys can ensure your compliance and prevent delays or complications.
03
Informal v. Formal Probate
Maine offers two probate paths—informal and formal. It is more common to use the informal process, which is faster and less expensive than formal probate.
04
Small Estates and Summary Administrative Procedure
In Maine, if a decedent’s assets are below a certain value threshold, it may be possible to avoid a lengthier probate process by completing a small estate affidavit or filing paperwork to expedite administration of the estate.
Our attorneys can help you determine whether you are eligible for either of these more streamlined processes.
05
Debt Management and Creditor Claims
The estate is responsible for settling the deceased’s debts before distributing assets to beneficiaries. An attorney can identify and prioritize claims, ensuring proper debt settlement and protecting your inheritance.
06
Tax Implications
Probate can have a variety of tax implications. Our attorneys can work with appropriate tax professionals to ensure proper tax filings and minimize any tax burdens on the estate and the beneficiaries.
07
Estate Administration and Asset Distribution
The probate process involves identifying, valuing, and managing estate assets. Our attorneys can ensure efficient administration, minimize estate shrinkage (loss of value), and assist with distribution to beneficiaries.
Choosing VBK Law Firm
For more than four decades, VBK Law Firm has upheld a commitment to client service and success. When you choose VBK, you work with knowledgeable, kind, and trusted advisors to guide you through the probate process.
Experience and Expertise
Our probate attorneys possess a vast understanding of Maine probate law and offer extensive experience with a personal touch when handling complex estates.
Compassionate Representation
At VBK, our firm recognizes that navigating probate can be an emotional process. Our team offers sensitive and informed support every step of the way.
Communication and Transparency
We keep you informed at every stage, ensuring you understand the process.
Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness
The combined experience of our probate attorneys allows them to navigate the probate
process efficiency, minimizing costs and delays.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney to discuss your specific situation.
Schedule a Meeting with VBK Law Firm
If you are facing the loss of a family member or loved one, let us help you manage the logistics of probate so that you can focus on your family and the healing process.
You can schedule a consultation with one of our probate attorneys by calling our general line at (207) 735-0881 or contacting Rosalind
or Lisa directly.
Probate Law Related
Estate Planning
As a Maine resident, protecting your assets and family is likely a priority. At VBK,we believe that proper estate planning can provide peace of mind.
