Initiating the Probate Process in New York

The probate process in New York is a court-supervised procedure that validates a deceased person’s will, appoints an executor or personal representative, and ensures the proper distribution of assets to beneficiaries. It can be a complex and sometimes lengthy process, but understanding how it’s initiated is a crucial first step in administering an estate. Here, we’ll guide you through the key steps to start the probate process in New York.

1. Confirm the Validity of the Will

Before initiating probate, it’s essential to ensure the deceased person’s will is legally valid. A valid will typically meet the following criteria:

• Testamentary Capacity: The person making the will (the testator) must have been of sound mind and legal age when creating the will.
• Signature: The will must be signed by the testator or by someone else in the testator’s presence and at their direction.
• Witnesses: In New York, a will must be signed by at least two witnesses who were present when the testator signed and who also signed the will.

If there are concerns or disputes regarding the will’s validity, it may be contested in court, prolonging the probate process. Seeking legal counsel from an experienced estate attorney can be invaluable in this situation.

2. Identify the Executor

The next step is to identify the executor named in the will. The executor manages the deceased’s estate, including gathering assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. If the will does not name an executor, the court will appoint one, typically a close family member or trusted individual.

3. File the Petition for Probate

To officially start the probate process, you or your attorney will need to file a petition with the Surrogate’s Court in the county where the deceased person resided at the time of their death. The petition typically includes:

• Details about the deceased person include their name, date of death, and residence.
• A statement confirming the will’s validity and the appointment of the executor.
• A list of the deceased person’s known assets and their estimated values.
• Names and addresses of beneficiaries and heirs-at-law (those who would inherit if there were no will).

The court will review the petition, and if everything is in order, they will issue a decree admitting the will to probate and officially appointing the executor. This decree grants the executor the legal authority to act on behalf of the estate.

4. Notice to Interested Parties

After the will is admitted to probate, the executor must notify all interested parties, including beneficiaries and heirs-at-law. This notice informs them of the probate proceedings and their rights. Interested parties can contest the will or raise objections during this period.

5. Inventory and Appraisal

As the executor, you’ll prepare an inventory of the deceased person’s assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal property. An appraisal may be required to determine the fair market value of certain assets. This inventory is submitted to the court for review.

6. Debts, Taxes, and Distributions

During probate, the executor must pay any outstanding debts from the estate’s assets, including funeral expenses, taxes, and creditor claims. Only after debts are settled can assets be distributed to beneficiaries according to the terms of the will.

7. Final Accounting and Closing

Once all debts are paid, taxes are settled, and assets are distributed, the executor prepares a final accounting of the estate’s transactions. This report is submitted to the court for approval. After receiving court approval, the estate can be closed, and the executor is released from their duties.

Seek Legal Guidance

The probate process in New York can be intricate and time-consuming, with many legal requirements and potential complexities. If you are named executor or need to initiate probate for a loved one’s estate, seeking legal guidance from an experienced estate attorney is highly recommended. They can help you navigate the process efficiently, address legal challenges, and ensure the deceased person’s wishes are carried out appropriately.

Morgan Legal Group has a team of skilled estate planning and probate attorneys in New York City who can assist you with all aspects of the probate process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get your professional guidance.