When someone passes away, the work of managing their financial and legal affairs doesn’t stop—it shifts to the shoulders of the person appointed to settle their estate. This role, known as estate administration, involves more than just distributing belongings; it includes settling debts, filing taxes, navigating court procedures, and often, resolving conflicts between beneficiaries.

At Lforlaw.com, we help executors, administrators, and family members connect with trusted estate attorneys across the United States who can simplify the legal process, reduce risk, and provide peace of mind during a difficult time.

What Is Estate Administration?

Estate administration is the process of collecting, managing, and distributing the assets of a person who has died. It encompasses all the legal and financial steps needed to settle an estate—whether or not a will exists.

There are two primary scenarios:

• If there is a will, the person named as executor handles the estate.

• If there is no will, the court appoints an administrator, typically a close relative, to perform the same duties.

Both roles carry legal responsibilities and must adhere to the laws of the state where the decedent lived (and where their property is located).

Key Duties of an Executor or Administrator

The individual in charge of the estate must complete several legally required tasks, including:

1. Filing for Probate (if required)
   The estate must be opened in probate court if probate assets (e.g., individually owned real estate) exist.

2. Identifying and Valuing Assets
   This includes real estate, bank accounts, stocks, retirement funds, business interests, personal property, and digital assets.

3. Notifying Creditors and Heirs
   Many states require formal notification of both known and unknown creditors, as well as all legal heirs.

4. Paying Debts and Taxes
   The administrator must pay valid debts, file the deceased’s final tax return, and in some cases, handle estate taxes.

5. Managing Property
   This may involve maintaining real estate, selling property, closing bank accounts, or managing business interests.

6. Distributing the Estate
   Once all debts and taxes are settled, the remaining assets are distributed according to the will—or, if there is no will, under the state’s intestacy laws.

7. Final Accounting and Court Approval
   In many cases, a full accounting of all actions taken must be submitted to the court before the estate can be closed.

Challenges in Estate Administration

Even with a valid will, estate administration can become complicated due to:

• Missing or contested documents
• Disagreements among heirs
• Out-of-state property or multiple beneficiaries in different states
• Business interests that require management or sale
• Medicaid estate recovery or spousal elective share claims

Without legal guidance, executors may unintentionally violate their fiduciary duties or face personal liability.

Estate Administration Without a Will (Intestacy)

If the deceased did not leave a will, the estate will be administered according to state intestacy laws. Typically:

• A surviving spouse receives a large portion or the entirety of the estate
• Children and other family members receive shares based on their relationship
• The court selects the administrator and may require a bond (insurance) to protect the estate

This process is often more time-consuming, especially when disputes arise.

Why Legal Help Is Crucial

Estate administration is not just a personal responsibility—it’s a legal one. An experienced estate attorney can:

• Guide you through probate court filings and deadlines
• Help locate and appraise complex assets
• Advise on tax implications and filing obligations
• Resolve creditor claims and family disputes
• Ensure compliance with state and federal law

Legal support reduces the risk of mistakes, delays, and financial exposure—and allows executors to focus on honoring the wishes of their loved one.

Lforlaw.com Connects You with Trusted Estate Administration Attorneys

Whether you’re named as executor in a will or appointed by the court, the responsibility can feel overwhelming. Let Lforlaw.com help you navigate the estate administration process with clarity, professionalism, and compassion.

For personalized legal guidance and assistance with estate administration, contact us today.