Powerful Page for Professional Women

There is an aspect of settling estates that is often overlooked. Many times lawyers don't take into account the psychological trauma affecting the whole family during the probate process. The lawyer's job is to make sure all the I's are dotted and all the T's are crossed. It does not leave much time to discuss issues of anger, or try to resolve problems between family members. This is a time when people want to be reassured that their needs are being met. Often, this is a time when the family glue becomes undone... Not only is money a big concern but items that may not be of much monetary value, but are of sentimental value, are in dispute. Communications between the lawyer and the family is most important, but the time demands on the lawyer makes this very difficult.

Families are not always thinking straight when in mourning. There are so many things to deal with. What to do with the clothes, the furniture, the house! Who to contact to stop the mail, turn off the utilities, and contact friends. It is overwhelming. Most law firms are not set up to help with these matters.

An intermediate can fill this void. The family can express its concerns without having to directly involve the lawyer. This accomplishes 2 things. The pressure is released from the family in being able to contact someone, and without having the expense of taking up the lawyer's valuable and expensive time. Mission is still accomplished and both parties are being well served.