Linda L. Kordes, Attorney at Law

NEWS

Probate and Administration

wills and probatesThese are the types of cases commenced in court after a person dies with property that must be disposed of or distributed.  That person is referred to as the decedent.   A probate is a type of case where a decedent's will is offered to the court so that a decedent's property can be distributed according to his or her intent.  Where there is no valid will, an administration proceeding is commenced.
 
In a probate proceeding, the Executor under the will asks the court to be appointed to handle the estate business.  In most cases, the Executor marshals the assets, pays the bills and ultimately, distributes the remaining assets to the beneficiaries.  In a probate proceeding, the Executor acts with the decedent's intentions as his guide.
 
In an administration proceeding, the decedent's intentions are unknown since there is no valid will to state them.  In that case, the state steps in and dictates intent according to a scheme devised by the state legislature.  Here, a family member usually asks to be appointed Administrator who then marshals the assets, pays the bills and ultimately, distributes the remaining assets according to shares determined by the state.

Note: This content is based upon the law as it exists today in New York State, and that it is general in nature and not designed to specific situations that may have additional facts not contemplated by the author.

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