Initial Probate Beneficiary Representation Consult

Probate Beneficiary Representation Consultation

This consultation is designed for individuals who are beneficiaries of an active estate and want to understand their rights, protect their interests, and ensure that the estate is being administered properly. This consult is for those concerned about the administration aspect of a probate. It is not designed to engage in litigation. 

During this consultation, our firm will:

• Review the current status of the estate
  Including filings, timelines, and any actions taken by the Personal Representative
• Explain in genteral the types of Joint Assets and how those can be sometimes EXcluded from the probate
• Explain the purpose of Beneficiary Joinder and Consent Forms and your rights
• Including your rights to information, accountings, distributions, and objections
• Evaluate potential concerns or red flags
  Such as delays, lack of communication, improper expenses, undervalued asset sales, or disputes among beneficiaries
• Discuss available legal options
  Including filing objections, petitions to compel, removal of a Personal Representative, or other protective actions where appropriate

What This Consultation Is (and Is Not)

This consultation is a case evaluation and strategy session. It is a limited representation for the consult only and it does not automatically establish ongoing representation. If it is determined that further legal assistance is appropriate, we will discuss next steps and potential engagement options.

Who This Is For

This consultation is ideal for beneficiaries who:

• Feel they are not receiving adequate information about the estate
• Have concerns about how assets are being handled or distributed
• Want to understand whether the Personal Representative is acting properly

The consultation fee is non-refundable. Limited to one consultation at this reduced rate. Future consultations related to the same decedent should be booked as a General Consultation. 

If you choose to retain our firm for Beneficiary Representation, our services are billed at an hourly rate of $285/hour for the duration of the engagement. We bill in prorated increments, meaning you are only charged for the actual time we spend working on your matter.

Examples of how billing works:

• A 6-minute email review and response → 0.1 hour = $28.50
• A 12-minute phone call → 0.2 hour = $57.00
• A 30-minute document review → 0.5 hour = $142.50
• A 1 hour strategy session or court preparation → $285.00

This structure ensures that you are only paying for the work performed. You also remain in control of your case. You may request that we stop work at any time. However, please note that we are ethically required to formally withdraw from representation with your consent, which includes finalizing your file and notifying the court if applicable. This process is typically billed at 0.2 hours ($57.00). Our goal is to provide transparent, efficient, and high-value representation while giving you flexibility and control over costs.