Despite the fact that people make jokes about lawyers all the time, they really are necessary in a community. They are, in effect, society's professional problem solvers.

While there is no requirement to use a lawyer, probate is a rather formal procedure. One minor omission, one failure to send a copy of the petition to a relative, or a missed deadline, can cause everything to come to a grinding halt.

Or, in the worst case scenario, such things can expose everyone to liability.

The death of a family member or friend sometimes tends to bring out the very worst in some people. Experience shows that even in close families there is a tendency to get overly emotional about relatively trivial matters at the time of a loved one's death, such as who gets the iron frying pan and who gets the kettle.

Such minor matters, or any delays or inconveniences can be upsetting, pose issues of fairness, and create unfounded suspicion among family members. Thus it generally is a very good idea to hire a lawyer to sort it all out for you – so you can grieve, and find your way in the world without the physical presence of your loved one.

If you’d like to speak with one of our funeral professionals about the issues you are currently facing, please call us. While we are not lawyers, we can make a worthy referral, should the situation warrant one.