Site Content

If you have been named the personal representative of another person's estate, you are probably wondering what is expected of you. You may also be wondering if you need a lawyer.

Alaska probate consists of several steps to settle the estate, pay appropriate bills and distribute assets to those who are entitled to

receive them. Among the legal steps are:

• Determining if there is a valid will

• Marshaling the assets of the estate

• Publishing a legal notice to creditors

• Selling or transferring the deed of real estate

• Paying legitimate expenses and taxes

• Distributing assets to those who are entitled to receive them.

As a personal representative of the deceased, you have a fiduciary responsibility (a high level of responsibility) not only to the estate, but

also to the beneficiaries.  Some assets can be distributed directly to beneficiaries, such as 401 (k) accounts, IRA accounts, life insurance  policies and assets held in trust.  As your attorney, I can advise you every step of the way. Regardless of how much of the process you wish to handle yourself, my help is only a phone call away.

I am Fred H. Valdez, a lawyer in Anchorage, Alaska. I provide unbundled

probate services. By unbundled, I mean that I can represent you throughout the probate process or simply provide you advice along the way. There are many things you can do yourself to minimize costs. At the same time, no one would want to proceed without legal advice.  I also represent beneficiaries and heirs who want me to supervise the probate process or who have disputes such as will contests.