In cases in which probate is required, the executor of the estate or the next of kin cannot take the actions necessary to administer the estate without the authority granted by the probate court. Probate is a complicated process that requires executors to prepare forms, meet deadlines, keep records, generate reports, submit filings to the court, and serve notices to creditors, heirs and local newspapers.

Choosing a trustee is, perhaps, the most difficult decision you must make when completing an estate plan. Do you choose a family member or friend to be trustee? Why would you want a professional trustee? What should I look for in a trustee? What are the advantages of choosing a professional trustee?

A buy-sell agreement is a contract between the owners of a business that sets forth certain triggering events that will allow the owners to exit from the business, who will be permitted or required to buy their shares, how the shares will be valued for purchase, and how any such purchase will be funded. Business owners will generally work with an attorney to navigate each of these issues in light of their specific circumstances. One-size-fits-all buy-sell agreements are inadvisable, because the facts surrounding each business and the needs of its owners are different in every situation.