Estate Administration in Georgia
Losing a loved one is never easy. During this time, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure about what comes next. If you need to settle a loved one’s estate, you do not have to handle the probate process alone.
At Alexander Gil, PLLC, we help families across Georgia move through probate with clarity and care. We guide fiduciary and families step by step. Our goal is to make the legal process as smooth and respectful as possible while protecting your loved one’s wishes.
If you need help with probate in Georgia, we are here to support you.
When You May Need a Probate Attorney in Georgia
You may need probate if:
- A loved one passed away and owned property in their name alone
- There is a will that needs to be filed with the court
- There is no will and the estate must be distributed under Georgia law
- Family members disagree about the estate
- You were named as Executor and need guidance
Even simple estates can become stressful without legal support. We help you avoid mistakes and move forward with confidence.
What Is Probate in Georgia?
Probate is the legal process of settling a person’s estate after death. The Probate Court oversees this process.
In Georgia, probate usually involves:
- Filing the will, if there is one
- Appointing an Executor or Administrator
- Identifying and valuing assets
- Paying debts and taxes
- Distributing property to heirs or beneficiaries
If there is no will, Georgia’s intestacy laws determine who inherits.
Types of Probate in Georgia
Georgia offers different types of estate administration depending on the situation.
Probate with a Will
If the person left a valid will, the court appoints the named Executor. The Executor carries out the instructions in the will.
Probate Without a Will
If there is no will, the court appoints an Administrator. The estate passes to heirs according to Georgia law.
Solemn Form Probate
This is a formal probate process where all heirs are notified. It provides strong legal protection because heirs have a limited time to challenge the will.
Common Form Probate
This is a simpler process that does not require advance notice to heirs. However, it may allow challenges later.
Year’s Support
Georgia law allows a surviving spouse or minor children to request a “Year’s Support.” This can provide financial protection for the family before other estate debts are paid.
We help you determine which process fits your situation.
The Probate Process in Georgia
While each estate is different, most probate cases follow these steps:
- File a Petition with the Probate Court
The process begins by filing paperwork in the county where the person lived. - Appointment of Executor or Administrator
The court officially appoints someone to manage the estate. - Notify Heirs and Creditors
Required parties receive notice. Creditors have a limited time to file claims. - Identify and Manage Assets
The personal representative gathers property, closes accounts, and protects estate assets. - Pay Debts and Taxes
Valid debts and expenses must be paid before distributing property. - Distribute Assets and Close the Estate
After obligations are satisfied, the remaining property goes to beneficiaries or heirs.
We guide you through each step and help you meet court requirements and deadlines.
How Long Does Probate Take in Georgia?
The timeline depends on the size and complexity of the estate.
Simple estates may take several months. More complex cases, especially those involving disputes or large assets, can take a year or longer.
We work efficiently and keep you informed throughout the process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Probate can create problems when it is not handled carefully. Common mistakes include:
- Distributing assets before paying debts
- Failing to notify required parties
- Missing court deadlines
- Mismanaging estate funds
- Ignoring Year’s Support rights
We help you avoid these errors and protect yourself from personal liability.
Why Work With Alexander Gil, PLLC?
Families choose our firm because we:
- Provide clear and honest communication
- Offer organized guidance from start to finish
- Focus on estate planning and probate matters
- Treat every family with respect and compassion
We understand that probate is not just paperwork. It is about honoring someone’s life and protecting their legacy.
Client Reviews
"I can’t say enough good things about Alex and his team. When my aunt lost her husband, she was left with nothing in her name and felt completely overwhelmed. Alex stepped in with so much compassion, patience, and expertise. He explained every step of the process clearly, fought hard for her rights, and truly made us feel like family was looking out for us.
His assistant Abby and paralegal Danielle were just as incredible—always responsive, kind, and on top of every detail. Together, they made a very difficult situation so much easier to navigate.
If you need a lawyer who is not only skilled but also genuinely cares about his clients, Alex is the one you want in your corner. We’re forever grateful."
Sharing my experience with AG PLLC in the hopes it helps someone else in need. Unfortunately, my father passed away early in 2025 and while he did have a will written out and notarized, it was not up to the current legal requirements, and I needed legal assistance to get his estate settled. I spoke with two attorneys, Alex and another. The other told me about all of these aspects of my father's estate that would need to be settled and frankly the entire call gave me anxiety and concern for getting the estate settled. Additionally, the estimated cost for that attorney provided for taking on the case added to the concern and anxiety I had. Fortunately, I had spoken to Alex first and already had some context and understanding for what the path forward would look like. Compared to the other attorney I spoke with, it was hardly a comparison. Alex calmly walked me through what would be entailed in settling my father's estate with Miami Dade and did not impress on me all of these various aspects of the case that could be cause for concern. His law firm were able to get my father's will admitted and accurately summarily judged from the courts and the fee for retainment was quite fair in my opinion. Granted, I've never gone through this experience before, but I have been satisfied with the legal counsel and support the law firm provided me. 10/10 recommend using this law firm for the services they specialize in. I want to also call out his paralegal team who have been no less than best in class service and help. I hope this review helps out anyone going through a similarly tragic experience I went through when my father passed.
Alex and his team were fantastic! They helped me legally navigate a difficult time going through the Probate process. Alex also helped me & my wife get our Trust set up & active. I would absolutely recommend them for your legal needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Some assets pass outside probate, such as jointly owned property or accounts with named beneficiaries.
Georgia law decides who inherits. The court appoints an Administrator to manage the estate.
In some cases, yes. Trust planning and proper beneficiary designations can reduce or avoid probate.
Costs depend on the estate’s size and complexity. Court fees, attorney fees, and other expenses may apply. We can explain expected costs during your consultation.
Speak With a Georgia Probate Attorney Today
If you are facing probate in Georgia, you deserve clear guidance and steady support. Let us help you move forward with confidence.
Contact Alexander Gil, PLLC today to schedule a consultation. We are ready to help you protect your loved one’s wishes and bring closure to the estate.