First Steps After Appointment
From the first call to opening the estate account
We help you file the will, obtain appointment papers, open an estate account, and begin the inventory. Understanding the
Kentucky probate process early prevents missteps and makes later decisions (like real estate sales) simpler.
Money, Property, and Paperwork
Accounting, reporting, and everyday tasks
Executors track income and expenses, keep receipts, and prepare summaries for heirs. We build an "executor binder" so accounting and reporting are consistent-especially important when there's a house near Hurstbourne Parkway or rental property in Oldham County.
Communication That Prevents Conflict
Updates and transparency for beneficiaries
Short, regular updates reduce tension and avoid unnecessary disputes. If questions escalate, we guide you through informal solutions first, then targeted dispute resolution only when needed.
Answers to Probate Process Questions
Five detailed answers Louisville families ask
What am I personally liable for?
You must act prudently, follow the will, and keep good records. Personal liability usually stems from self-dealing, missed deadlines, or poor documentation. Our procedures and checklists reduce that risk.
Can I be paid as executor?
Yes-reasonable fees are allowed and disclosed. We'll set expectations early and document time spent so compensation is clear to beneficiaries.
How do I handle selling the house?
Confirm authority in the will, obtain valuations, maintain the property, and document offers. Proceeds go to the estate account, not personal accounts. We coordinate with local realtors and title companies for clean closings.
What debts do I have to pay?
Only valid, timely claims are paid. We help you evaluate medical bills, credit cards, and taxes, then explain priority and proof so the estate doesn't overpay.
What if there's also a trust?
We coordinate probate with trust administration-sharing inventories, aligning distributions, and avoiding duplicate work.