Probate Attorney in West Hills, NY

Navigate Probate with Confidence and Clarity

When you’re dealing with loss, you need a probate attorney who understands both the legal complexities and the emotional weight of settling an estate.

West Hills Estate Administration Services

Get Your Family's Estate Settled Right

You’re not just closing paperwork—you’re honoring your loved one’s wishes and protecting your family’s future. Our probate process gets you through Surrogate’s Court efficiently while handling every detail that matters.

No more wondering if you’re missing critical deadlines or filing the wrong documents. We manage the entire estate administration from start to finish, so you can focus on what’s important: your family.

When probate is complete, you’ll have clear title to inherited assets, all debts properly settled, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing everything was handled correctly under New York law.

Experienced West Hills Probate Lawyers

Local Expertise You Can Trust

We have been serving Long Island families through some of their most challenging times. We understand the unique aspects of probate in Suffolk County and the specific procedures of our local Surrogate’s Court.

Our team speaks Spanish and Italian, and we’ll meet you wherever you’re comfortable—at our office, your home, or even the hospital or nursing facility. We’ve built lasting relationships with families across West Hills because we take the time to understand your specific situation.

This isn’t about rushing you through a process. It’s about making sure your family’s estate is handled with the care and attention it deserves.

West Hills Probate Process Guide

Here's What Actually Happens

First, we review the will and identify all assets that need to go through probate. Not everything does—jointly owned property and accounts with beneficiaries typically bypass the process entirely.

Next, we file the probate petition with Suffolk County Surrogate’s Court along with the original will and death certificate. We handle all the required notices to beneficiaries and distributees, and obtain the necessary waivers or citations.

Once you receive Letters Testamentary, you have legal authority to act as executor. We help you inventory assets, pay legitimate debts and taxes, and ultimately distribute the remaining estate to beneficiaries according to the will’s terms.

The timeline typically runs 8-15 months, but we keep you informed every step of the way so there are no surprises.

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Complete West Hills Estate Administration

Everything You Need Under One Roof

Our probate services cover the full spectrum of estate administration needs. We prepare and file all court documents, handle asset valuations, manage creditor claims, and ensure proper tax filings—both state and federal.

For West Hills families, we understand the local considerations that matter. Many of our clients own real estate that needs to be sold as part of the estate, and we handle those transactions too. We also know how to work with local banks and financial institutions to transfer accounts efficiently.

If complications arise—like will contests, missing heirs, or disputes among beneficiaries—we have the litigation experience to protect your interests. Our goal is to resolve issues quickly and keep the estate moving forward.

You get one legal team handling everything from the initial court filing through the final distribution and estate closing.

How long does probate take in West Hills, NY?

Most probate cases in Suffolk County take 8-15 months to complete, with a minimum of seven months required by law for creditor claims. The timeline depends on several factors including the complexity of the estate, whether there are disputes, and how quickly beneficiaries respond to required paperwork. Simple estates with clear wills and cooperative families move faster. More complex situations—like business interests, out-of-state property, or family disagreements—take longer. We give you realistic expectations upfront and keep you updated throughout the process.

What assets have to go through probate in New York?

Only assets held solely in the deceased person’s name typically require probate. This includes individual bank accounts, solely-owned real estate, personal property, and investments without beneficiary designations. Assets that bypass probate include jointly-owned property, retirement accounts with named beneficiaries, life insurance policies, and assets held in trust. If the total probate estate is under $50,000, New York offers a simplified small estate procedure instead of full probate. We help you identify which assets need probate attention and which can be transferred directly to beneficiaries, potentially saving time and money.

Do I need a lawyer for probate in West Hills?

While New York doesn’t require an attorney for probate, the process involves complex legal procedures, strict deadlines, and potential personal liability for executors who make mistakes. Most people find that professional guidance saves time, reduces stress, and prevents costly errors. Executors are personally responsible for properly managing estate assets, paying debts, and filing accurate court documents. If you miss deadlines or make procedural errors, you could face personal liability or delays that cost the estate money. An experienced probate attorney handles the legal complexities while you focus on your family during this difficult time.

What happens if someone dies without a will in West Hills?

When someone dies without a will (called “intestate”), New York’s intestacy laws determine how their assets are distributed. The court appoints an administrator instead of an executor, and assets go to surviving family members in a specific order—spouse first, then children, then parents or siblings. The process takes longer than probate with a will because the court must determine all legal heirs and ensure proper notice is given. There are also additional steps to locate and notify potential beneficiaries. We help families navigate intestate administration and ensure all legal requirements are met while protecting everyone’s inheritance rights.

How much does probate cost in West Hills, NY?

Probate costs in New York include court filing fees (ranging from $45 for small estates to $1,250 for larger ones), executor commissions (typically 4-5% of the estate value), and attorney fees subject to court approval. Many executors who are close family members waive their commissions. Attorney fees are generally reasonable compared to the value of getting the process done correctly and efficiently. We discuss all costs upfront and work to minimize expenses while ensuring your estate is properly administered. Our goal is to preserve as much of the estate as possible for the beneficiaries.

Can I sell real estate during probate in West Hills?

Yes, but you need proper court authority first. If the will gives the executor power to sell real estate, you can typically proceed after receiving Letters Testamentary. If the will doesn’t include this power, you’ll need specific court approval before listing the property. We handle both the probate aspects and the real estate transaction, ensuring all legal requirements are met. This includes obtaining proper valuations, court approvals if needed, and coordinating with real estate agents and title companies. Selling estate property requires careful attention to legal details, tax implications, and beneficiary rights. Having experienced legal counsel protects everyone involved and ensures the sale proceeds are properly distributed.

Local Resources

West Hills, NY is located in Suffolk County in New York State

Probate Attorney in West Hills, NY

Navigate Probate with Confidence and Clarity