Barry Miller Law Client Resource
Probate Welcome Center
A practical guide to the probate process, your MyCase client portal, and the decisions you should discuss with your legal team.
Welcome
We will help you understand what comes next.
Probate involves court filings, financial information, deadlines, and important decisions. Our team will guide the legal process and let you know when your action or approval is needed.
The Probate Process
Your probate journey.
Every estate is different. These five stages provide a general overview of how most matters progress.
Opening the estate
We prepare and file the documents needed to begin the court process and seek appointment of the personal representative when applicable.
Identifying estate information
Assets, debts, beneficiaries, property, and other important information are gathered and reviewed.
Administering the estate
The legal team works with the court, financial institutions, creditors, taxing authorities, and other interested parties.
Preparing for distribution
After required obligations are addressed, the estate can prepare to transfer or distribute assets as legally permitted.
Closing the estate
Final documents are completed and filed so the probate matter can be formally concluded.
Your Client Portal
MyCase is your secure connection to the firm.
Use MyCase for case-related communication and documents whenever possible. This keeps important information organized in one secure location.
Through MyCase, you can:
- Read secure messages from your legal team
- Upload requested documents
- Review and electronically sign forms
- Complete assigned tasks
- Receive updates about your matter
Your Role
What helps—and what requires a conversation first.
Help keep the matter moving
- Respond promptly to requests
- Provide complete and accurate information
- Upload clear copies of documents
- Keep receipts for estate expenses
- Tell us when important circumstances change
Contact us before you:
- Sell or transfer estate real property
- Close bank or investment accounts
- Pay creditors with estate funds
- Give estate property to family members
- Distribute money or other assets
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions during probate.
How long does probate take?
Many estates take approximately six to twelve months. The actual timing depends on the estate’s complexity, creditor issues, taxes, real estate, disputes, and the court’s schedule.
Will I have to appear in court?
Many probate matters do not require the client to personally appear in court. Your legal team will notify you if an appearance is necessary.
Can the estate’s real estate be sold?
It may be possible, but contact the firm before listing, signing a contract, transferring, or otherwise acting concerning estate property.
When can beneficiaries receive distributions?
Distributions usually occur after required legal, creditor, tax, and administrative matters have been addressed.
How should I contact my legal team?
Use a secure MyCase message for case-related communication whenever possible. Call the office when the issue is urgent or you need immediate guidance.
When you are unsure, ask before acting.
Send your legal team a secure message through MyCase or call Barry Miller Law.
Call 407.423.1700Disclaimer: The information provided is general in nature and is not intended to constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. The facts and requirements of every estate are different. Follow the instructions provided by your legal team for your specific matter.