Probate is a legal procedure where a will is proved to be valid or invalid and an estate of a decedent is administered. If you are concerned about the death of a loved one or an estate in the Richmond, Virginia area, including Chesterfield County, Hanover County, Henrico County and the City of Richmond, probate attorney James H. Wilson, Jr., would be pleased to consult with you regarding the probate process in Virginia or assist you with the administration of an estate.
When someone dies without a will, that person is said to have died intestate, and the laws of intestate succession will govern how his or her inheritable property passes. When someone who has a will dies, the will can govern how some property passes and may also appoint those individuals who will act as executor, guardian or trustee; some property may not pass via the will. In any event, there may be a number of duties that need to be performed with respect to the estate of the person who has died (the “decedent”): proving the validity of any will; filing a list of heirs; request the appointment or qualification of a legal representative, an Administrator or an Executor, with authority to act on behalf of the decedent; identify, inventory and appraise the property of the decedent; pay debts and taxes; and transfer the property of the decedent.
A will contests are challenges to the way property is distributed under a will. Probate attorney James H. Wilson, Jr., would be happy to discuss your concerns about the validity of any will in which you may have an interest.
If one of your loved ones is unable to care for him or herself or his or her property, probate lawyer James H. Wilson, Jr., can help you establish a conservatorship to ensure the individual is cared for and his or her property is handled competently.
To set up a free consultation, contact me online or call me at 804.740.6464.