Probate and Estate Settlement Services
The loss of a loved one can be one of the most difficult experiences in life. It is easy to become overwhelmed with the complex details of estate administration; paying taxes, notifying creditors,
gathering and distributing assets according to preset
formulas, keeping close accounting records.
Navigating the complexities of the probate and estate settlement process can lead to numerous questions;
What is probate?
- Is probate always necessary?
- Does any part of the estate bypass probate?
- How does probate affect taxes?
- What if the estate is not sufficient to pay creditors?
- Am I responsible for debts left by the decedent?
- Why won't the bank release my relative's accounts without the will first going through probate?
- How long does the probate process take?
- How does probate work if there is no will?
At Hedrick Gardner, we are prepared to provide you and your family the full range of services you will need during this difficult time. Our dedicated team of estate and trust personnel can provide the highest level of personalized service in a very cost efficient manner.
We provide our clients with the following services:
Filings:
- Admission of will to probate
- Preparation of initial inventory of assets
- Notice to possible creditors
- Preparation of accounting records for the court
- Preparation of Federal and North Carolina estate tax returns
Technical and Legal Services:
- Advice to personal representative in fulfilling fiduciary duties
- Advice on elections and other estate related planning
- Post-mortem estate and income tax advice
- Planning for the most tax advantaged disposition of retirement assets
- Assistance with the administration and coordination of the probate estate with trusts established by the decedent.
Hedrick Gardner is ready to assist you and your family in meeting your probate and estate administration needs.
Charlotte Office
James E. Hickmon