Probate

Probate Lawyers in Hampton, NH

Losing a loved one is a difficult time in the life of a family. Grieving is often made more difficult by the need to settle the estate of the deceased. Probate is the legal process for administering a deceased person’s (decedent’s) estate, including paying estate debts and taxes and distributing property.

If you have reached this page because you need to probate the estate of a loved one, please accept our condolences. We have been in your shoes, and we understand how overwhelming the process can be, especially if you are unfamiliar with it. You don’t have to go through it alone; our probate lawyers can guide you through the process of managing a loved one’s estate with clear direction and genuine compassion. Contact Beaton & Kiers to get the help you need with the New Hampshire probate process.

Understanding the New Hampshire Probate Process

The probate process in New Hampshire begins with the filing of a petition to open a probate estate in the county where the deceased last resided. If the decedent had a will, the person named as executor usually files the petition; the will must be submitted to the court to confirm its validity. If there was no will, an interested person, usually a close relative, can petition to open the estate. There is no deadline by which a New Hampshire probate estate must be opened, but it is usually best to open the estate within a few months after the death so that the estate business can be settled in a timely fashion.

Once the estate is opened, the probate court will appoint a personal representative to oversee the estate. “Personal representative” is an umbrella term that can refer to either an executor of a will, or an administrator appointed by the court in the absence of a will. The personal representative is responsible for gathering, inventorying, and establishing a value for all estate assets.

The personal representative’s duties also include notifying heirs and creditors of the opening of the estate. Creditors have to file any claims against the estate within a certain time after being notified, or those claims will be barred. The personal representative is responsible for paying all legitimate debts of the estate, including taxes. After estate debts are settled, the personal representative of the estate must distribute any remaining estate property according to the terms of the will, or under New Hampshire law if there was no will.

Simplified New Hampshire Probate Procedure

In some circumstances, a decedent’s estate is eligible to go through a simplified procedure by filing a Waiver of Full Administration. This process is usually quicker, easier, and less formal than the typical probate process. Waiver of full administration is often used when the only heirs or beneficiaries of the estate are also the personal representative(s), but it is available in other limited circumstances and when the court decides a waiver of full administration is appropriate. If you think your loved one’s estate might qualify for a waiver of full administration, contact a probate attorney for more information.

To get started with our experienced attorneys, call (603) 769-3491 today. We have over 50 years of combined experienced and are ready to help.

Trustworthy Advocates for Life’s Toughest Moments

Why Clients Trust Beaton & Kiers

With decades of combined trial experience, a proven record of success, and a reputation for compassionate, responsive service, we combine deep legal knowledge with a client-first approach to guide you through every challenge with confidence and care.

  • Experienced Advocates

    We have decades of experience in New Hampshire courts, including drug and mental health courts.

  • A History of Wins

    Our impressive record of favorable trial outcomes spans a wide range of complex cases.

  • Deep Local Knowledge

    With extensive understanding of New Hampshire laws, we're ready to fight for you.

  • Full-Service Support

    We offer comprehensive legal services for individuals and families in crisis.

  • Trusted Locally

    We've cultivated respected relationships and a solid reputation in the legal community.

  • Client-Focused Care

    Our approach features compassionate, attentive, and responsive service at every step.

Speak to Our New Hampshire Probate Lawyers

If you need to settle the estate of a loved one, there are many ways a probate attorney can help you navigate the process, from identifying the best procedure for your situation to ensuring that you have properly completed all necessary notifications, reports, and filings before closing the estate.

The attorneys of Beaton & Kiers understand that probate is more than just a legal matter; almost everyone who must administer an estate has lost someone close to them. We remain mindful of the very personal nature of this work while giving you the straightforward direction you need to get through probate in an efficient, cost-effective way.

To learn more about New Hampshire probate or how probate lawyers can guide you through the process, contact Beaton & Kiers to schedule a consultation.

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