Losing a loved one is tough enough without the added stress of dealing with their estate. The probate process can feel like a real headache, especially if you're unfamiliar with how it works. But don’t worry—having a solid probate attorney by your side can take a lot of the pressure off and help you make sense of it all.

The Responsibilities of a Probate Attorney in NYC 

When someone passes away, their estate usually goes through probate. This is the process of handling their final affairs—paying any debts, distributing assets, and ensuring their wishes are carried out. 

If you’re the executor or involved in the estate, you might find yourself getting buried in paperwork and legal jargon. That’s where a probate attorney in NYC, like the team at Busson & Sikorski, can step in.

Their job is to help make sure everything goes smoothly. From filing the will with the court to helping deal with any disputes or claims, they’re there to guide you through each step. And if you're dealing with tricky situations, like a contested will, having a professional on your side is more important than ever. 

Berenice Busson and Robert S. Sikorski have years of experience in estate planning and can help keep things on track.

Steps in the Probate Process

So, what happens during probate? It’s not a quick process, but it’s pretty straightforward once you break it down. First, the will gets filed with the court, and an executor is named to manage the estate. 

If there’s no will, the court will appoint someone to do this. Next, all assets and debts are accounted for, which can take time if there are a lot of assets involved or if there are disagreements among family members.

A probate attorney can help make sure everything’s properly documented and that you’re staying on top of court deadlines. And if someone challenges the will? That’s where things can get messy, but with a knowledgeable attorney by your side, you’ll be in good hands.

When Things Get Complicated: Contesting a Will

Not all probate cases go smoothly. Sometimes, people argue about the will, especially if there’s more than one version or if there’s doubt about the person’s mental state when they signed it. This can lead to a contested will, where someone challenges its validity. 

If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to have someone on your team who knows how to handle these disputes.

An attorney will help you gather evidence and present a case if there’s a question about whether the will is legitimate. Whether there are questions about the decedent’s intentions or whether someone was exerting undue influence, a probate attorney will ensure the process stays fair and transparent. 

At Busson & Sikorski, the team is experienced in handling all types of probate disputes, so you don’t have to worry about missing any important details.

What Happens If There Is a Dispute?

Disputes often come up when people can’t agree on how the estate should be divided. This might be about specific belongings, money, or property. But just because a dispute arises doesn’t mean it has to go to court. Mediation is one way to avoid a long, drawn-out legal battle. With the help of a neutral mediator, parties can come to a resolution without the stress and expense of going to court.

If things can’t be settled easily, that’s when an experienced probate attorney comes in to represent you in court. Busson & Sikorski can help guide you through the legal process, working to protect your interests while also keeping things as amicable as possible.

Brazilian Attorney in NYC: Handling Cross-Border Probate Issues

When someone passes away and has assets or family members in Brazil, things can get more complicated. If you’re dealing with an estate that involves Brazilian law, you’ll need a Brazilian attorney in NYC like Busson & Sikorski who understands both U.S. and Brazilian legal systems.

Whether it’s an international will or dealing with property overseas, having someone who knows how both legal systems work can save a lot of time and headaches. With Berenice Busson’s background in Brazilian law, she’s well-equipped to handle complex, cross-border probate matters that require knowledge of both countries’ laws.

Get the Help You Need

Dealing with probate isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Whether you’re managing the estate of a loved one or facing a dispute, having the right probate attorney can make all the difference. Busson & Sikorski have the expertise to guide you through every step, ensuring everything is handled according to the law.

If you’re facing probate issues in NYC or dealing with cross-border legal matters, don’t hesitate to reach out. Their experienced team is here to help—call today for a consultation!