Tips for Locating the Attorney Who Took Care of Your Loved One’s Will in New York
Losing a family member is tough, and dealing with their legal stuff on top of grieving can make things even more frustrating.
First off, when someone passes away, it's important to find out who's in charge of handling their will and estate. For people in New York who need help with this, knowing how to track down the lawyer handling their deceased family member's will can be a big help during this rough time.
Look Through Personal Records
Start by digging through the deceased family member's personal files to see if they had any contact with a lawyer about their will or estate.
Talk to the Executor and Family
Reach out to the person in charge of the deceased's estate (the executor) to see if they know the lawyer who wrote the will. Family members and close friends might also have some info on the lawyer.
Check with the Probate Court
Get in touch with the probate court in the county where the deceased lived. They might have the scoop on the lawyer handling the estate.
Ask Other Professionals
Lawyers, financial advisors, or tax pros who worked with the deceased might know the lawyer who handled their will. They could give you tips on finding the right legal help.
Go Online
Use the internet and legal directories to look for lawyers and law firms that deal with estate planning and probate law in the area where the deceased lived. The New York State Bar Association's Lawyer Referral and Information Service can be a good place to start.
Go Through the Will
If you can get your hands on the deceased family member's will, it might have details about the lawyer who wrote it and how to get in touch with them to start sorting out the estate.
Get a Pro on Your Side
Dealing with a deceased family member's estate can be tricky and emotional. It's a good idea to get advice and help from a seasoned probate lawyer who knows the ropes. They can walk you through the legal stuff and help you find and connect with the lawyer in charge of the deceased family member's will.
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