Estate & Trust Administration

Mr. Whitlow and his staff assist executors and administrators through the entire probate and estate administration process:

• The initial steps after the death of a loved one
• Gathering the necessary information and documentation related to assets and debts
• Beginning the probate appointment process in the court system
• Managing logistical issues, such as accessing a decedent’s financial accounts
• Advising and assisting the fiduciary with the required filings and deadlines
• Communicating and dealing with beneficiaries and creditors
• Making distributions to beneficiaries, including minors, adults with disabilities and trusts
• Helping the fiduciary with the proper transfer of nonprobate assets (those that pass outside the probate estate)
• Preparation of and filing of inventories and accountings with the Commissioner of Accounts

Mr. Whitlow and his staff assists fiduciaries with problems that arise during the estate administration process, including:

• Probating a copy of a Will or lost will
• Petitioning to appoint a fiduciary if a named fiduciary has dies or cannot serve
• Disputes with beneficiaries
• Claims by creditors
• Claims by a surviving spouse, including the elective share of the augmented estate, and the statutory allowances (family allowance, exempt property allowance and homestead allowance)

Given the firm’s extensive litigation experience, W & Y brings unique insight and considerable experience in helping avoid and resolve disputes. Unlike many firms, W & Y not only assists through the entire estate and trust administration process, but if litigation occurs, can handle any disputes that may end up in court. W & Y also advises individual and corporate trustees through the trust administration process, including managing and determining distributions, filings with the Commissioner of Accounts, coordinating with tax professionals regarding tax issues that arise in trust administration.