Estate Administration in Rhode Island: Who is in Charge?

June 13, 2024

Estate Administration in Rhode Island: Who is in Charge?

Dealing with the death of a loved one is difficult enough, but when there are legal and financial matters to attend to, it can become overwhelming. One of the most important aspects of settling an estate is properly handling the administration. But who exactly is in charge of this process? In this blog post, we will answer this question and more as we explore estate administration in Rhode Island and how Tomassi Law, LLC can assist Warwick residents with these matters.


When a person passes away, their assets must be distributed to their heirs or beneficiaries according to their wishes (as stated in their will) or according to state law if they did not have a will. The person in charge of overseeing this process is called the fiduciary. In most cases, the fiduciary is named in the decedent's will and is typically a family member or close friend. If no one was named as fiduciary, the court may appoint someone.


The fiduciary has several responsibilities during the estate administration process including identifying and managing assets, paying debts and taxes owed by the decedent's estate, notifying creditors and beneficiaries of their rights, distributing assets according to the will or state law, and filing final tax returns for the decedent.


Navigating all of these tasks can be complex and time-consuming. That's where an attorney can help. An experienced estate administration attorney like those at Tomassi Law, LLC can guide you through each step of the process while ensuring that all legal requirements are met.


One key benefit of working with an attorney during estate administration is avoiding costly mistakes. For example, failing to properly identify all assets or pay outstanding debts could result in legal action against the fiduciary personally. An attorney can help mitigate these risks by providing expert guidance and minimizing errors.


At Tomassi Law, LLC we assist Warwick residents with estate administration matters. Our experienced attorneys provide compassionate guidance and legal support during this difficult time. We can help you navigate the estate administration process, ensure all legal requirements are met, and minimize risks for the fiduciary.


In conclusion, properly handling estate administration is crucial to ensuring that a decedent's assets are distributed according to their wishes or state law. The fiduciary is responsible for overseeing this process, but an attorney can play a vital role in providing expert guidance and minimizing risks. If you need assistance with estate administration in Rhode Island, Tomassi Law, LLC is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you during this difficult time.


A bicycle is parked on a dirt road in the woods.
November 20, 2024
Understanding Liability in Rhode Island Bicycle Accidents
A scale of justice is sitting on a wooden table next to a gavel, representing the topic of wrongful death lawsuits in RI.
September 25, 2024
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Rhode Island?
A long exposure photo of a highway at night
September 24, 2024
Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Rhode Island
A scale of justice and a judge 's gavel are on a wooden table.
July 13, 2024
Understanding Premise Liability in Rhode Island
A person is holding a cell phone with a picture of cars on the screen.
May 13, 2024
Who Determines Fault in a Car Accident in Warwick?
A notebook with the word probate written on it, representing probate law in Rhode Island.
By Jared Tomassi April 29, 2024
Dealing with the passing of a loved one is never easy, and navigating the legal process of probate can add an extra layer of stress during an already difficult time. If you are a Rhode Island resident who has recently lost a family member or friend, you may be wondering when it is appropriate to contact a probate law attorney for assistance. In this blog post, we will discuss the situations in which seeking legal guidance from a probate attorney is recommended and how they can help you through the probate process. The first situation in which it is advisable to contact a probate law attorney is if the deceased person did not leave behind a will. When someone passes away without a will, their estate must go through the probate process in order to distribute their assets according to state law. A probate attorney can help navigate this complex process and ensure that the estate is distributed fairly and in accordance with Rhode Island laws. Another reason to contact a probate law attorney is if there are disputes among family members regarding the distribution of assets or the validity of the deceased person's will. Emotions can run high during these situations, and having an experienced attorney on your side can help resolve conflicts and prevent costly litigation. A probate lawyer can act as a mediator between family members and work towards finding amicable solutions that benefit everyone involved. Additionally, if you are named as the executor of an estate, it is highly recommended to seek legal counsel from a probate law attorney. The role of an executor comes with many responsibilities, including inventorying assets, paying debts, and distributing property to beneficiaries. A probate attorney can provide guidance on fulfilling these duties correctly and efficiently, ensuring that all legal requirements are met throughout the probate process. If you suspect that someone has unduly influenced or coerced the deceased person into making changes to their will or estate plan, contacting a probate law attorney is essential. Cases of undue influence or fraud can invalidate a will or trust document, leading to disputes among beneficiaries and potential legal challenges. A skilled lawyer can investigate these claims, gather evidence, and advocate for your rights in court if necessary. Navigating the complexities of the probate process can be overwhelming for individuals who have recently lost a loved one. Seeking guidance from Tomassi Law in Rhode Island can ease some of this burden and ensure that your interests are protected throughout the proceedings. Whether you are dealing with issues related to intestacy, family disputes, executor duties, or potential fraud, an experienced lawyer can provide invaluable support and representation. Do not hesitate to reach out for legal assistance during this challenging time.
A large house with a lot of windows and a garage on a rainy day.
March 13, 2024
Important Things to Know About Buying a Home in Warwick
A scale of justice is sitting on a wooden table next to a gavel.
February 14, 2024
Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Rhode Island
A man and a woman are shaking hands in an office.
February 12, 2024
Protect Your Assets with a Trust: A Guide for Warwick Residents
A person is writing with a fountain pen on a piece of paper, representing the topic of probate.
January 24, 2024
Understanding Probate: How long does it take in Rhode Island
More Posts
Share by: