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Practice Area

Estate Administration
& Probate

The executor’s role is a legal one, carrying personal fiduciary responsibility for months or years. Qualified counsel is not a luxury — it is the most effective protection available to an executor.

What We Handle

Probate & Administration
Done Right

Being named executor of an estate is an honor that comes with significant personal legal responsibility. Errors — even well-intentioned ones — can result in personal liability. The executor is responsible for marshaling assets, notifying creditors, filing required tax returns, and distributing the estate in accordance with the will, all under Surrogate’s Court supervision.

Michel Law represents executors, administrators, and beneficiaries through all stages of the probate process — from the initial petition through final distribution. We also represent parties in contested estate proceedings, including will contests, fiduciary removal proceedings, and accounting disputes.

Attorney’s fees in estate administration are paid from the estate, not by the executor personally. Retaining qualified counsel is an estate expense that protects the executor from substantially greater personal exposure.

Probate Proceedings
Filing and prosecution of probate petitions in Surrogate’s Court, including contested matters and multi-county proceedings.
Executor Representation
Comprehensive representation of executors and administrators through all stages of estate administration.
Beneficiary Representation
Representation of beneficiaries in accounting proceedings, distribution disputes, and executor removal matters.
Will Contests
Representation in contested probate proceedings involving claims of lack of capacity, undue influence, or fraud.
Fiduciary Accounting
Preparation and review of formal accountings, and representation in contested accounting proceedings.
Estate Tax Returns
Coordination of federal and New York estate tax return preparation and filing with qualified tax counsel.
Our Approach
I
We begin with a comprehensive inventory of the estate — what is subject to probate, what passes outside the estate, and what tax and creditor obligations exist.
II
We manage the timeline and court filings, keeping the executor informed and protected at every stage without unnecessary delay or expense.
III
Where disputes arise among beneficiaries or with creditors, we resolve them efficiently — through negotiation where possible, litigation where necessary.

This page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The law applicable to your specific situation may differ. Please consult qualified legal counsel regarding your circumstances. Attorney Advertising.

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