Probate
Settling an estate, one filing at a time
Probate is the court process that gives the right person authority to settle someone’s affairs. It is mostly paperwork, notices and waiting.
We handle uncontested estates in Maricopa and Pinal counties for one flat fee. If a relative contests the will, or the estate is unusually complex, we tell you early and quote that part separately.
The probate package includes
Opening the estate with the court
Letters to heirs and known creditors
An inventory of what the estate holds
Paying valid debts and taxes from the estate
Distributing what is left
Closing the case
The path from first filing to closing
Court filing fees, publication fees and appraisals are paid at cost and are not part of the flat fee.
- 01
We open the estate
We file the will and the petition, and the court names the person who will act.
- 02
We notify and inventory
Heirs and creditors receive notice. We list what the estate owns and what it owes while the notice period runs.
- 03
We distribute and close
Debts are paid, what is left goes to the people named, and we ask the court to close the case.
About probate
Does every estate go through probate?
No. Property in a trust, or with a named beneficiary, often passes outside it, and small estates may use a shorter process. We check before we recommend anything.
How long does it take?
Usually months, not weeks. Most of the time is spent waiting out the notice periods the court requires.
I live out of state. Can I still be the one in charge?
Often, yes, with a few extra steps. We will tell you what the court asks of someone who lives elsewhere.
Settling an estate now?
Tell us who has died and what you know about the estate. We will reply with a flat fee in writing.