Probate, Estate, and Trust Administration

When a loved one passes away, transferring their assets can sometimes require a court-supervised legal process known as probate. Probate is often necessary when assets are titled solely in the decedent’s name and not already designated to pass directly to beneficiaries. While this process provides oversight, it can also be costly, time-consuming, and stressful for family members.

At Fred E. Glickman, P.A., we help clients understand whether probate is necessary and, when possible, how to avoid probate through proactive estate planning. If you are planning ahead, we will show you strategies—such as revocable living trusts and proper beneficiary designations, that can help your family avoid court involvement entirely.

Probate and Estate Administration After a Death

If your loved one has already passed and probate is required, we are here to guide you through the entire process. Probate begins by creating a legal entity known as the estate, and a personal representative (also called an executor) is appointed to administer it.

We work closely with personal representatives and family members to:

• Navigate the court process

• Handle required filings and deadlines

• Communicate with beneficiaries and creditors

• Minimize delays and unnecessary expenses

Our attorneys are committed to reducing the burden on your family during an already difficult time.

Trust Administration Services

In some cases, a loved one may have created a living trust during their lifetime. When this occurs, trust administration—the process of managing and distributing assets according to the trust’s terms—may be necessary.

Unlike probate, trust administration is typically handled without court supervision, making it more efficient and cost-effective. We assist trustees with:

• Understanding their legal duties

• Managing and distributing trust assets

• Notifying beneficiaries

• Filing required tax documents

Whether you are acting as a trustee or a beneficiary, our firm ensures the trust is administered properly and according to the decedent’s wishes.

Peace of Mind During the Process

Whether you are administering an estate through probate or managing a trust after a loved one’s passing, we are here to support you at every step. With decades of experience in estate and trust administration, we provide compassionate, knowledgeable guidance to help you navigate this process with confidence and clarity.