Probate Attorney in Duluth, GA

Experienced Probate Services

When a loved one passes away, grieving families in Duluth, GA are faced with the complex legal process of probate. Settling the estate and distributing assets requires navigating court procedures and Georgia probate law which most find confusing and stressful during such an emotional time. That’s why over the past 17 years, Emert & Yeom has been providing compassionate, dedicated probate and estate administration services to Duluth families.

Our team of experienced probate attorneys helps guide you through the entire process, handling all the details so you can focus on healing. Whether you need full estate administration or customized probate services, Emert & Yeom is here to make this difficult time easier for your family. With proven expertise in GA probate law, our attorneys work efficiently to settle estates while keeping costs reasonable. Reach out today to learn how we can provide you with trusted guidance and care.

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process of administering the estate of a deceased person. It involves:

• Identifying and inventorying the person’s assets
• Paying any outstanding debts and taxes
• Distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries as per the will or state law
• The probate process ensures the deceased person’s wishes are carried out and creditors are paid before assets are distributed to heirs. It also validates the will and provides court supervision of the estate settlement.

In Georgia, probate occurs in the probate court of the county where the deceased resided. The length of probate depends on the estate’s complexity but generally takes 6 to 12 months. 

When is Probate Necessary?

Probate is necessary if the deceased person owned any assets solely in their name. Assets owned jointly with rights of survivorship pass directly to the joint owner and do not require probate.

• Common assets requiring probate include:
• Solely owned real estate
• Bank accounts, investments, and retirement accounts with no beneficiary
• Vehicles and boats titled in the deceased’s name
• Personal possessions like jewelry, art, or collectibles

In addition, probate is necessary if the estate requires the appointment of a personal representative to administer and distribute assets. Even if most assets are jointly owned or have beneficiaries, probate may be needed for taxes and debtor claims.

Dangers of Avoiding Probate

Some people try avoiding probate with living trusts or joint titling of assets. However, probate has benefits that are lost with avoidance strategies: 

• Validates wills and provides court supervision of estate settlement
• Notifies creditors allowing claims to be paid before distribution
• Facilitates transfer of assets like real estate and accounts
• Distributes assets that had no beneficiary or joint owner 

There are also risks of improper asset distributions or unfinished business when avoiding probate. An experienced probate attorney can advise you on the pros and cons of probate in your specific situation. 

How We Handle Full Probate Administration

Emert & Yeom provide complete administration services for both testate (with a will) and intestate (without a will) probate. Our full administration process includes: 

• Petition the court and file required notices
• Collect information on assets and debts
• Inventory and appraise estate assets
• Manage the decedent’s mail, bills, utilities, etc.
• Sell assets if funds are required for debts/taxes
• Pay valid creditor claims and estate taxes
• Prepare estate accounting for court
• Distribute remaining assets per will or law
• Keep detailed records and beneficiary updates
• Close probate after asset distribution 

We also handle ancillary probate for out-of-state real estate and prepare any necessary tax returns. Clients have 24/7 access to a secure online portal to view probate documents and communicate with our team. 

Other Probate Services Offered

In addition to full estate administration, Emert & Yeom provide focused probate services related to:

• Will contests or disputes over distributions
• Purchasing probate properties
• Handling creditor claims against the estate
• Litigating estate disputes on the beneficiaries’ behalf
• Assisting with the transfer of estate assets like real estate or accounts
• Acting as a court-appointed estate administrator
• Providing restricted probate services with limited court involvement 

We customize our services to handle only those probate tasks needed by heirs and beneficiaries.

Why Choose Emert & Yeom for Probate in Duluth, GA?

Navigating Georgia probate law and procedures on your own can be overwhelming during a difficult time. Emert & Yeom have an in-depth understanding of GA probate law and work efficiently to complete the process. Our benefits for probate clients include: 

Compassionate Guidance

Losing a loved one is heartbreaking enough without having to tackle complex legal issues. Our attorneys provide caring guidance and education through the entire probate process. 

Decades of Experience

With over 17 years of probate and estate planning experience, we handle everything related to wills, trusts, probate, and asset distribution. You can trust us to resolve any issue that arises. 

Personalized Service

Each client gets our dedicated personal service. We take the time to understand your family situation and goals, tailoring our counsel accordingly. Our firm works solely on estate matters, so you always deal directly with a probate expert. 

Reasonable Fees

We make our services affordable, offering flat rates instead of hourly billing for many probate tasks. This allows you to control costs and avoid surprise invoices. 

Efficiency & Convenience

By using streamlined systems and technology, we expedite document preparation, court filings, and correspondence for faster completion. Our online portals also provide 24/7 access to your probate documents. 

Peace of Mind

During an emotional time, our capable team relieves your worries about legal issues. We handle every detail and keep you informed each step of the way. 

Contact Emert & Yeom Today

Losing someone close to you is profoundly difficult. The last thing you need is to manage complex probate issues on your own during such an emotional time. By choosing Emert & Yeom as your probate attorneys in Duluth, GA, you can feel confident knowing you have an experienced team handling every aspect of estate settlement on your behalf.

Our attorneys have spent over 17 years providing personalized, compassionate counsel to local families during the probate process. We take pride in simplifying things for you and offering caring legal guidance when you need it most. Please contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Let us ease this burden so you can focus on grieving and honoring your loved one’s memory.

About Duluth, GA

Duluth, Georgia, is a vibrant city that beckons with its unique blend of Southern charm and modern amenities. This charming town boasts an array of attractions that cater to a diverse range of interests. 

History buffs can explore the Southeastern Railway Museum, where vintage locomotives and rail cars showcase the region’s railway heritage. For art enthusiasts, the Hudgens Center for the Arts offers a captivating collection of contemporary artworks. 

When hunger strikes, Duluth doesn’t disappoint. Sink your teeth into delectable Korean barbecue at Iron Age, an interactive dining experience that’s perfect for groups. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the flavors of New Orleans at Noona’s Cajun Creole, where dishes like jambalaya and gumbo transport your taste buds to the heart of Louisiana. 

In Duluth, every visit promises an enriching journey through culture, history, and gastronomy.

Our Service Area

While we are located in Duluth Georgia, we provide estate planning, real estate closings, and business law to clients from all around the metro Atlanta area including Buford, Suwanee, Lawrenceville, Duluth, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, and more. Contact us today when you need an experienced attorney to help you with any of these matters.