Guiding Virginia families through estate administration with care and clarity.

Estate Administration Services in Virginia

When a loved one passes, managing their estate can feel like an emotional and legal maze. At McFather Law Firm, we provide calm, capable guidance for executors, trustees, and families. Whether you’re facing probate, trust administration, or navigating a contested estate, we walk you through every step—clearly, respectfully, and in compliance with Virginia law.

We can help.
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Probate Can Be Complex—But It Doesn’t Have to Be
Proper legal guidance can simplify court filings, reduce delays, and prevent common mistakes that can stall the process.

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Executors Carry Legal Responsibilities
From gathering assets to notifying heirs, executors and trustees must act in accordance with the law—and we help ensure they do.

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Without Guidance, Issues Can Arise
Poor administration may lead to tax errors, missed deadlines, or family disputes. Our job is to reduce those risks.

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We Provide Legal Clarity When It Matters Most
We guide you through probate, estate administration, and trust management with precision, empathy, and experience.

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What to Expect from the Estate Administration Process

Estate administration involves collecting assets, settling debts, and distributing property according to a will—or, if no will exists, under Virginia’s intestacy laws. If a valid will is in place, it typically must go through probate. This process can be time-consuming and detail-heavy, but our firm works to make it feel manageable from the very beginning.

When assets are placed in a properly drafted and funded living trust, probate may be avoided entirely. In these cases, the successor trustee can manage and distribute assets according to the trust’s terms. Whether you're facing probate or trust administration, we provide structure, reassurance, and legal clarity throughout.



Typical steps include naming an executor or administrator, verifying the will, identifying heirs, settling debts, and distributing assets. Each step carries legal responsibilities. At McFather Law Firm, we help you handle those duties confidently—reducing delays, avoiding errors, and honoring your loved one’s intentions.

Probate can take

9-24

More than

50%

of Americans don’t have an estate plan

Executor errors account for

30%

of probate delays

Why Legal Guidance Matters During Estate Administration

Many families are surprised by how much work estate administration involves. From probate paperwork and court appearances to coordinating with beneficiaries and resolving disputes, the process can take 9–24 months or longer without help. Executor errors alone account for 30% of all probate delays. With McFather Law Firm by your side, you can move forward efficiently—with peace of mind that every legal detail is covered.

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  • What does an executor do in estate administration?

    An executor is responsible for filing the will with the court, managing assets, settling debts, and distributing property to beneficiaries. They must comply with state laws and deadlines, ensuring all legal steps are followed correctly. Hiring an estate administration attorney helps prevent mistakes, delays, and legal complications.

  • Do all estates have to go through probate?

    Not necessarily. If assets are held in a trust, jointly owned, or have designated beneficiaries, probate may be avoided. However, if assets are only covered by a will, they must go through probate. Our firm helps clients determine whether probate is required and how to streamline the process.

  • How long does the probate process take?

    Probate can take anywhere from 9 to 24 months, depending on estate complexity, legal challenges, and court schedules. Delays often occur due to executor errors, disputes, or missing documents. Proper legal guidance helps expedite the process and avoid costly mistakes.

  • What if there is no will?

    When someone dies without a will (intestate), the state determines how assets are distributed. This can lead to unexpected outcomes and lengthy probate proceedings. Having an estate plan ensures your assets go where you want them to, rather than leaving it to state laws.

  • How can an estate administration attorney help?

    An attorney assists with legal filings, probate navigation, dispute resolution, and ensuring executor compliance. Without proper legal guidance, executors risk costly mistakes and probate delays. McFather Law Firm provides experienced legal support to make estate administration as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Start the process today

Simplify estate administration with trusted legal guidance.