Whether you've been named executor, are the closest family member, or don't know where to begin — we walk you through the process and handle the court work.
Probate confirms a will is valid, appoints someone to act for the estate, makes sure debts and taxes are paid, and transfers what's left to the people entitled to it. In Kentucky it runs through the district court of the county where the person lived.
You've been named in a will and want to carry out your duties correctly — and protect yourself from personal liability along the way.
Only about 1 in 4 American adults has a will. When someone passes without one, Kentucky law decides who inherits; we help the family have an administrator appointed and the estate settled fairly.
You have questions about your share, the timeline, or how the estate is being handled — and want a clear answer from someone who does this every day.
A parent passed in Louisville and you live elsewhere. We handle the local court, the property, and the paperwork so you don't have to be here for every step.
Every estate is different, but most follow this path. We'll tell you up front which steps apply to yours.
We file with the district court to open the estate and admit the will, if there is one.
The court appoints the executor or administrator, who then has legal authority to act.
Assets are inventoried within two months; creditors get their six-month window.
Valid claims, final bills, and any inheritance tax are resolved before distribution.
Heirs receive their shares, a final settlement is filed, and the court closes the estate.
No. Assets held jointly, in a trust, or with a named beneficiary usually pass outside probate, and Kentucky lets the court dispense with administration for qualifying small estates.
Because creditors have six months from the fiduciary's appointment to bring claims, most estates stay open at least that long. Real property, disputes, or tax questions extend it. We give you a realistic timeline at the start.
Spouses, children, parents, grandchildren, and siblings are exempt. Nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and unrelated beneficiaries may owe tax depending on the amount — we calculate it as part of settling the estate.
Gathering and protecting assets, notifying creditors and heirs, paying valid debts, keeping records, and distributing the estate as the will directs — under the court's oversight. We guide you through each duty.
Every estate is different. Call or email and we'll explain how fees work for your situation before you commit to anything.
1041 Goss Avenue, Louisville, KY 40217 · Monday–Friday 8–5, weekends by appointment