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Probate & Estate Administration

Knowledgeable Phoenix Probate Lawyer Settles Decedents’ Estates

Arizona attorney provides advice and representation for executors and administrators

If you have recently lost a loved one, you’ve no doubt heard the word “probate” used in relation to your loved one’s estate. Probate can refer to the court process of validating a will so a personal representative (i.e., Arizona’s term for executor) can implement the decedent’s wishes, or the oversight the court provides for a personal representative who settles an intestate estate. Whether a will exists or not, the process of settling an estate can be complex, so the person who assumes those duties needs the advice of a knowledgeable probate lawyer. I have extensive experience advising clients who act as personal representatives. Personal representatives need sound guidance, since the law holds them personally liable for losses in the value of estate assets due to errors or misconduct. I can guide you through this complex process quickly and efficiently, so you maximize the value of the estate for your loved one’s heirs.

Probate & Probate Litigation

I advise, guide, and represent clients in all stages of the probate and estate administration process. Many of our estate planning clients also turn to us to assist them when a family member passes away.

I can handle everything, from:

  • probating a Will in court
  • assisting a Personal Representative or other parties in this process
  • working with investment advisors to fund a trust.

In addition, I am experienced in helping clients to resolve disputes that arise in the probate context and in probate litigation. He not only has the experience to help families avoid a probate ahead of time, but he also can help them work through the many nuances of a probate case if they are forced to file a probate case.

Have you recently lost a loved one and need help? I’ve put together a resource for you, “A Quick Course in Probate.” Click the button below to access the resource:

Click Here to Request the Resource

Probate attorney who guides you through every step of the process

Most personal representatives have never probated a will; many are surprised to learn the decedent’s will named them as the responsible party. When there is no will, the least-reluctant close relative usually acts as personal representative of the estate, after getting court approval. In most cases, the party responsible for settling the estate has no prior experience with tasks that include:

  • Filing the will with the Arizona probate court
  • Getting court approval as personal representative and posting bond
  • Developing the best strategy for fairly and expeditiously settling the estate
  • Finding and assembling assets
  • Paying creditors and claimants
  • Collecting amounts owed to the estate
  • Closing and opening bank accounts
  • Transferring assets from the deceased to the estate
  • Paying current and delinquent taxes as well as estate taxes
  • Valuing, managing, preserving, and liquidating the estate
  • Locating beneficiaries
  • Hiring experts, when appropriate

Personal representatives can easily make mistakes due to inexperience, stress, and hasty decisions. I guide clients through every step of the probate process, with reliable, detailed advice, so you can settle your loved one’s estate as efficiently, quickly, and easily as possible.

Valuing assets within the estate

I assist executors with the arduous process of collecting, valuing, protecting, and liquidating the assets of the estate. When needed, I can call upon accountants, financial advisors, real estate agents, property managers, and other professionals to assist with executor duties and can access expert opinions about unique assets such as antiques, rare books, automobiles, and other collectibles for accurate valuation, management, and possible sale.

Capable management of probate disputes

Even in apparently straightforward estate cases, there are sometimes disputes among beneficiaries or between certain beneficiaries and the personal representative. When representing the estate or the estate’s fiduciary, I demonstrate the utmost professionalism in negotiations and in the courtroom. Whether the issue is a will challenge or accusations against a fiduciary’s management of estate assets, I advocate strongly for my client’s rights.

Contact an experienced and knowledgeable probate lawyer

John Even provides probate services in Phoenix and throughout Arizona. Call 602-663-9263 or contact me online to schedule a consultation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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  • Testimonials
    • "Once I made my initial call to Mr. Even‘s office I never looked back – great decision! His staff is courteous, caring and efficient. Mr. Even is professional, highly knowledgeable, good listener and adviser. I highly recommend Mr. Even. It is a privilege to have him on my team!"  -Trusts & Estates May 14, 2018

    • "John is an excellent wordsmith, and did a great job of putting my thoughts, ideas, and issues into a clear legal document. I have known and worked with him for 25 years on business issues, including business purchases, of two companies and then selling them for retirement. He is also a delightful person to work with and has an excellent group of to-workers."  -Estate Planning May 3, 2018

    • "He was willing to spend time explaining things."  -Estate Planning February 24, 2018

    • "We were referred to John by a neighbor and, frankly, couldn’t be happier with the responsiveness and quality of service. The estate planning services we’ve received in the past pale in comparison. Very, very pleased with the process and breadth of estate planning John provided."  -Trust & Estates October 10, 2017

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    Office Location
    • Phoenix Office
      1221 East Osborn Road
      Suite 105
      Phoenix, Arizona 85014
      Phone: 602-277-7000
      Fax: 602-277-8663
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