Van Dyke Law, LLC has been serving the probate and estate needs of individual clients for many years. We help plan and prepare so those special individuals in our lives are appropriately taken care of. After the passing of a love one or dear friend, we assist fiduciaries, executors, administrators or others with the administration of the estate in Probate Court.
Probate Administration
In order to distribute assets to heirs or beneficiaries, an estate must be opened in the appropriate Probate Court. Connecticut Probate Courts have a specific process and require filings that each case must comply with prior to the distribution of assets. Our attorneys can assist with this process from start to finish, or as special litigation counsel in contested matters.
We offer our services to fiduciaries in charge of an estate, and also offer our services as the fiduciary. An appointed fiduciary (executor or administrator) often retains a lawyer to assist with the complexities of administration in Probate Court. Our services may include initiating the probate matter, gathering information as to the assets for an inventory, as to debts and creditors for the return of claims, information for tax returns, and, ultimately, information to facilitate distribution. We frequently work and coordinate with family accountants who have been involved in the financial matters over the years to efficiently move an Estate through Probate and navigate tax issues.
Probate Litigation
Van Dyke Law, LLC is often retained as litigation counsel by fiduciaries, beneficiaries, or creditors. We assist with litigation aspects of Probate Administration to resolve claims against, or in favor of, the estate in the most efficient manner. Van Dyke Law, LLC prides itself on being a litigation law firm handling a large variety of complex litigation matters. Our significant litigation experience allows us to quickly assess claims, identify issues facing both sides, and better prepare us to negotiate beneficial settlements and facilitate agreements. In the event a settlement agreement is not reached, we look forward to representing fiduciaries, beneficiaries, or creditors in Probate Court, the Connecticut Superior Court, and in any subsequent appeal.
We also represent those seeking to challenge a will they feel was inappropriately drafted and/or executed, those seeking to admit a will they feel is appropriate, or those seeking to challenge, or defend, asset transfers made during a loved one’s lifetime. The considerable litigation and trial court experience of our attorneys is a significant asset to clients under these extreme circumstances.
Van Dyke Law, LLC recognizes that there are estates requiring different levels of attorney involvement, and that there are problems requiring unique approaches for a successful resolution. We offer consultations to determine how we may be able to help you, and we look forward to providing any assistance to you. Contact our West Hartford, Glastonbury, or Enfield office today for your initial free consultation.