Probate in Southern Indiana

Clear & Reliable Legal Guidance Throughout the Probate Process

When someone passes away in Indiana, their estate enters into a legal process known as probate. The process typically takes between six to twelve months from start to finish, depending on the complexity of the estate. Of course, if the will is contested or other legal disputes arise, probate may take even longer to conclude. Essentially, probate is the legal process that oversees the assessment of the estate, the payment of any outstanding debts the estate owed, and the eventual distribution of assets to the beneficiaries. Ooley Law is here to help families navigate the process and address any disputes that arise along the way.

Understanding the Probate Process

If the deceased individual left a will, there should be a named individual who has been appointed to serve as the estate’s executor. This person files a request with the probate court to serve as the executor, and—provided there are no complications—the court will appoint this individual to serve as the personal representative. Once named, the personal representative gathers all of the important documents of the estate and has the value of the estate assessed, and pays off any debts that the deceased individual may still owe. Then, the beneficiaries are contacted and the estate is divided up among them, according to the instructions in the will.

Addressing Complications

One complication that can arise during probate is when the deceased individual has no will in place. When this happens, the probate court will step in to oversee the appointment of a personal representative, and the distribution of the estate will be handled according to state laws. Should any disputes about the validity of the will arise, or if beneficiaries begin to fight with each other, the court may intervene to resolve these matters.

Trusted Probate Guidance When You Need It

Probate can be a challenging process, especially if arguments arise. Our experienced probate lawyers are here to help you with any questions you may have about the probate process. We provide assistance to personal representatives who may be unsure about whether they can fulfill their obligations, and we can work with beneficiaries to ensure that the estate is distributed in a fair and equal manner. We encourage you to contact us today to learn more about how we can help you successfully navigate the probate process with confidence.

Contact Us

If you need assistance with the probate process in Southern Indiana, Ooley Law can help. We're here to answer your questions and ensure that your matter is resolved quickly and effectively. Call our Borden office at (812) 567-3848 today to schedule your initial consultation.