Probate and Estate Administration

Guiding Estate Executors and Administrators in Indiana

After the death of a loved one, those left behind are left with the task of tying up loose ends. If you are the executor, administrator or personal representative of an estate, it can be difficult to know where to begin and know whether your are meeting your duties properly. You do not have to go through the process alone — I am here to help.

At the office of Margaret Royce Galvin, Attorney at Law, I will help you understand and fulfill your obligations as an executor, administrator or personal representative. Offering sound and trustworthy legal guidance, I have many years of experience guiding clients through the probate and estate administration process. Call 219-228-7115 (toll free 866-669-5008) to find out how I can assist you.

Navigating the Probate Process

As an executor, administrator or personal representative, many people will turn to you for answers about the settlement of the estate. Potential heirs. Alleged creditors. Rightful beneficiaries. They are all looking to you for information and action. The administration of an estate involves numerous steps. As your lawyer, I will help you meet your obligations, including:

• Opening the estate
• Identifying assets
• Identifying creditors
• Paying off final debts
• Preparing the inheritance tax return
• Completing final accounting for the probate court
• Distributing assets to beneficiaries and heirs
• Transferring title to real estate

My job is to help you accomplish an efficient and proper administration of the estate, and protect you from personal liability. We will discuss ways to handle potential conflicts among family members and other beneficiaries. I will run interference with creditors — instead of your having to face harassing and aggressive calls and letters, I will become the point of contact between the creditors and the estate. I will work with you to see that debts are paid according to statutory priority.

Understanding Inheritance Tax Issues

I understand the tax implications associated with the probate administration process. I will explain the application of Indiana inheritance taxes, and I will prepare the state inheritance tax return.

The death of a loved one can be a difficult and stressful time. I will assist you through the legal process of handling the transfer of the decedent's assets with compassion and skill.

Call 219-228-7115 (toll free 866-669-5008) to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation. I represent clients throughout Lake County and surrounding areas.