Colorado Probate Attorneys
Protecting estates and honoring wishes for 30+ years.
Don't let probate matters overwhelm you or create unnecessary stress. At Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C., our Colorado probate attorneys are here to provide the dedicated legal support you need. We specialize in handling probate cases from complex issues to simple estates. We’ve helped clients with personal representative of estate representation, fiduciary duty guidance, conflict resolution between family members, and more. Let us be your trusted legal partners during the probate process. Contact us today!
Why is Hiring a Probate Lawyer Important?
Regardless of the complexity of the estate, having an experienced attorney guide you through the probate process is critical. The probate process is the legal process of collecting and liquidating assets and distributing them to the named beneficiaries in the will or heirs under the applicable intestacy statutes.
We can help you and your family through the process and ensure that you complete the necessary steps to ensure compliance with Colorado law. Our statutory duties as a personal representative, meet and communicate applicable deadlines, determine priority for payment of claims and ultimately distribute the estate upon closing. There are numerous deadlines and required notices and filings that necessitate the assistance of an experienced attorney to ensure compliance.
We can assist in the following duties:
- Validating the will of the deceased
- Inventorying and appraising assets
- Paying outstanding debts and applicable taxes
- Administering the estate by representation of the executor
- Representing surviving spouses and heirs
- Transferring real estate titles
- Settling disputes among family members
With over 40 years of combined experience, we know how to handle a variety of potential issues that may arise in probate cases, including:
- Dealing with creditors,
- Handling the establishment of a conservatorship if a minor child is entitled to inherit,
- Filing statutory claims,
- Handling inherited funds due to disabled beneficiaries or beneficiaries receiving public benefits,
- Handling situations involving contested wills, and much more.
Our goal is to help you and your family determine what path to take during probate and to walk you through each step of the process. The probate process is the legal process of collecting and liquidating assets and distributing them to the named beneficiaries in the will or heirs under the applicable intestacy statutes. We can help you and your family through the process and ensure that you complete the necessary steps to ensure compliance with Colorado law.
30+ Years of Industry-Leading Experience
At Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C., our Colorado probate lawyers offer expert guidance and protection for families who are:
- Navigating asset transfers to beneficiaries,
- Addressing creditor issues,
- Contesting wills or trusts,
- Asking for the removal of executors or personal representatives, and
- Handling routine probate or trust matters.
We have 30+ years of proven legal experience in resolving legal matters inside and outside of court and will work closely with you to ensure the best possible outcome.
Our well-versed Colorado probate attorneys can help you navigate complex contested probate litigation as a:
- Family member
- Heir
- Devisee
- Beneficiary
- Guardian
- Conservator
- Personal representative
- Trustee
Frequently Asked Questions About Probate
Can you explain the probate process?
The process typically begins by filing the deceased person's will (if one exists) with the appropriate court. The court then appoints an executor or personal representative to oversee the process. The personal representative's responsibilities include:
- Collecting and appraising the deceased person's assets
- Settling outstanding debts and taxes from the estate
- Distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries as outlined in the will or according to Colorado law
The probate process can vary in complexity and duration depending on the size of the estate and whether any disputes arise during the proceedings.
Do all estates have to be probated?
That depends on the size of the estate, how assets are titled, and specific state laws. In many cases, smaller estates with minimal assets or assets held in joint tenancy, trusts, or with designated beneficiaries may avoid probate. Each case is unique, so please consult with our Colorado probate lawyers for more information.
What if a personal representative does not start probate?
In that case, interested parties creditors or beneficiaries can petition the court to have a personal representative appointed, which may include:
- Filing the necessary documents
- Inventorying the estate's assets
- Paying debts and taxes
- Distributing assets to the rightful beneficiaries
Furthermore, the court can intervene and appoint a new personal representative if the named personal representative continues to neglect their duties, is mismanaging the estate, is disregarding an order of the court or is unable to fulfill their duties for any reason. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that the probate process proceeds as required by law and that the estate's affairs are properly settled.
What happens if the decedent died without a will?
In that case, the estate's distribution is determined by the state’s laws of intestate succession. Typically, a personal representative is appointed by the court to manage the estate, identify legal heirs, and distribute assets according to state-specific rules. This distribution often prioritizes surviving spouses, children, and close relatives. The personal representative also settles debts and liabilities using estate assets. For more detailed information, please consult the legal team at Jorgensen Brownell & Pepin, P.C.
How much does probate cost?
Cost can vary depending on the complexity of the estate and whether any disputes arise during the process. Common expenses associated with probate may include:
- Court filing fees
- Attorney fees
- Personal representative fees
- Appraisal costs
- Outstanding debts and taxes owed by the estate
In simpler cases, probate costs may be relatively modest, while more complex estates or contentious situations can result in higher expenses. To get a more accurate estimate of probate costs, reach out to us! We’re here to help.
Need Reliable Assistance? Contact Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C.
If you are involved in an issue related to a family member's passing, a will contest, an inheritance dispute, a claim against an estate or trust, or any other issue with estate and trust administration, contact our firm to learn how we can help. We will answer your questions and address any concerns you may have about your case. Our law firm is here to assist you in any way possible.
Additional Resources
Probate Specialties
- Personal Representative of State
- Executor or Personal Representative
- Fiduciary Duty
- High Conflict Probate
- High Net Worth Estate
- Modifications and Amendments
- Probate Process
- Removing and Appointing Trustees
- Rights of Heirs Beneficiaries
- Will Contest
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