Probate Attorney in Franklin Square, NY

Get Your Family Through Probate Right

Professional probate guidance that actually makes sense when you need it most—no legal jargon, just clear direction through Nassau County’s court system.

Estate Administration Franklin Square NY

What Life Looks Like After Probate

Your loved one’s affairs are settled properly and completely. Assets are distributed according to their wishes, creditors are paid, and your family has closure.

The court paperwork is filed correctly the first time. You understand each step of the process instead of feeling lost in legal complexity. Most importantly, you can focus on healing while knowing the legal details are handled by someone who cares about your family’s outcome.

When probate is done right, families move forward with confidence. Property transfers happen smoothly, beneficiaries receive their inheritance without unnecessary delays, and you avoid the costly mistakes that can drag cases out for years.

Probate Lawyers Nassau County NY

Franklin Square Families Trust Our Experience

We’ve been serving Long Island families since 2012, handling probate matters throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties. We understand the unique challenges Franklin Square families face—from protecting family homes to navigating multi-generational planning needs.

Our bilingual team speaks Spanish and Italian, reflecting the diverse community we serve. We know Nassau County Surrogate Court procedures inside and out, which means your case moves through the system efficiently.

What sets us apart is our commitment to accessibility. We meet you where you are—whether that’s your home, a hospital, or a nursing facility. Because legal help shouldn’t be another burden during an already difficult time.

Probate Process Franklin Square NY

Here's Exactly How Probate Works

First, we file the probate petition with Nassau County Surrogate Court along with the original will, death certificate, and required supporting documents. The court reviews everything to ensure the will is legally valid.

Next, we handle the citation process—notifying all beneficiaries and distributees of the probate proceeding. This gives interested parties the opportunity to consent or raise any objections before the court.

Once the court appoints the executor, we begin the estate administration process. This includes inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining property to beneficiaries according to the will’s instructions. Throughout this process, we keep you informed and handle all court communications on your behalf.

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Executor Legal Help Franklin Square NY

Complete Probate Support for Executors

As an executor in Franklin Square, you’re responsible for managing your loved one’s estate through Nassau County’s legal system. This includes collecting assets, paying debts, filing tax returns, and distributing property—all while dealing with grief and family dynamics.

Franklin Square’s proximity to major Nassau County institutions means many residents have complex financial portfolios requiring careful estate administration. Our local knowledge helps navigate everything from Long Island real estate transfers to business succession issues.

We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your family. From preparing court documents to communicating with beneficiaries, we ensure every detail is managed properly and on time. Most Franklin Square probate cases resolve within 9-18 months when handled correctly from the start.

How long does probate take in Nassau County, NY?

Probate in Nassau County typically takes 9 to 18 months for straightforward cases. However, the timeline depends on several factors including estate complexity, whether the will is contested, and the court’s current schedule. Contested wills or disputes among beneficiaries can extend the process significantly—sometimes taking several years to resolve. Estates with complex assets, tax issues, or creditor claims also require more time to properly administer. The key to keeping your case on track is having experienced legal representation from the start. We know Nassau County Surrogate Court procedures and can anticipate potential delays, helping your case move through the system as efficiently as possible.

What documents do I need to start probate in Franklin Square?

You’ll need the original will, a certified death certificate, and a completed probate petition. The petition requires detailed information about all beneficiaries and distributees, including their names and addresses. You’ll also need either signed waivers from all distributees or the court will issue citations. Additionally, you must provide a Notice of Probate to all beneficiaries named in the will and file an Affidavit of Comparison confirming the will’s authenticity. Filing fees vary based on the estate’s value—ranging from $280 for smaller estates to $1,250 for estates over $500,000. We handle all document preparation and filing to ensure everything is submitted correctly the first time, avoiding costly delays.

Do I need a lawyer for probate in Nassau County?

While New York law doesn’t require an attorney for probate, the process is complex enough that most people benefit from professional guidance. Nassau County Surrogate Court has specific procedures and deadlines that must be followed precisely. Executors face personal liability if they make mistakes during estate administration. This includes everything from improperly notifying beneficiaries to mishandling asset distributions. The cost of fixing these errors often exceeds the initial legal fees. Given the emotional stress of losing a loved one, having experienced legal support allows you to focus on your family while ensuring the estate is handled properly. We’ve seen too many families struggle with DIY probate attempts that ultimately cost more time and money than professional help from the beginning.

What happens if someone dies without a will in Franklin Square?

When someone dies without a will in New York, it’s called dying “intestate.” The estate goes through administration rather than probate, and state law determines who inherits the deceased person’s property. In Nassau County, the Surrogate Court appoints an administrator (usually a close family member) to handle the estate. New York’s intestacy laws prioritize surviving spouses and children, then parents, siblings, and other relatives in a specific order. The administration process is similar to probate but often more complex because there’s no will to guide asset distribution. Family disputes are more common in intestate cases, making legal representation even more important to protect everyone’s interests and ensure proper estate settlement.

How much does probate cost in Nassau County?

Probate costs in Nassau County include court filing fees, legal fees, and administrative expenses. Filing fees range from $280 to $1,250 depending on the estate’s value, with most Franklin Square estates falling in the middle range. Legal fees vary based on the estate’s complexity and whether any disputes arise. Simple, uncontested cases typically cost less than complex estates with multiple properties, business interests, or family conflicts requiring additional court proceedings. Executor compensation is also allowed under New York law, calculated as a percentage of the estate’s value. When you factor in potential delays and mistakes from handling probate without legal help, professional representation often saves money in the long run while ensuring everything is done correctly.

Can I avoid probate for my family in Franklin Square?

Yes, there are several ways to avoid probate in New York. The most common methods include establishing revocable living trusts, designating beneficiaries on accounts and policies, and holding property in joint ownership with rights of survivorship. For Franklin Square families, properly funded living trusts are often the most effective probate avoidance strategy. This allows your assets to pass directly to beneficiaries without court involvement, saving time and maintaining privacy. However, probate avoidance requires advance planning and proper legal documentation. Many families think they’ve avoided probate but discover gaps in their planning after it’s too late. We help Franklin Square residents create comprehensive estate plans that truly protect their families from unnecessary court proceedings.

Local Resources

Franklin Square, NY is located in Nassau County in New York State

Probate Attorney in Franklin Square, NY

Get Your Family Through Probate Right