Upon the death of a loved one, those who are left behind usually have numerous questions concerning their rights and obligations regarding the estate of the deceased. In the State of Connecticut, the resolution of a loved one's estate occurs in probate court.  Each probate proceeding is unique because each family's circumstances are unique.  However, some common threads run through each situation.

Someone must be put in charge of gathering the assets of the decedent.  If there is no last will and testament, that person will be called the Administrator.  If there is a will, that person will be called the Executor.  When a person dies, the assets of that person must be gathered together (at least in a symbolic sense) and a report made to the probate court of those assets.

Similarly, the debts of the deceased must be identified and paid through the probate court. The Administrator may be authorized to make some initial decisions concerning the validity of the claims being made against the estate.  In making such determinations, it is often essential to have the advice of legal counsel, as the probate process can be complex. 

Finally, when all the assets are identified and the debts are resolved the remaining estate must be distributed.  To learn more about how we can help you with the administration of a loved one's probate estate please contact our law office today.