Probate Law
Move an estate through the legal process with fewer surprises and clearer next steps.
When responsibility shifts because of death, incapacity, or family change, clear counsel can turn an unfamiliar process into a manageable one.
Navigate responsibility, administration, and change with a clearer process.
After the loss of a loved one, probate can add legal and administrative complexity to an already difficult period. Zeh & Associates guides families through New York Surrogate's Court with clarity, precision, and compassion.
Most people administer one estate in a lifetime. Knowing what comes next is most of what makes it manageable.
What an executor actually has to do.
Administering an estate through Surrogate's Court involves a defined set of tasks. These are the ones we handle on the family's behalf.
Probate Petition
Prepare and file the petition necessary to begin the probate process.
Will Validation & Heir Identification
Address the validity of the will and identify the parties entitled to notice.
Court Filings & Appearances
Handle required submissions and appearances in Surrogate's Court.
Asset Inventory & Appraisal
Help organize estate assets and valuations.
Debts & Claims
Address creditor claims and estate obligations.
Taxes & Administration
Coordinate tax and administrative requirements connected to the estate.
Distribution to Beneficiaries
Complete the legal steps required to distribute remaining estate assets.
Probate is a process. Knowing the sequence changes the experience.
In New York, Surrogate's Court oversees probate in the county where the decedent lived. With a valid will, the court verifies it and appoints the named executor. Without a will, the court appoints an administrator under intestacy rules.
Opening the estate, and closing it.
Gather Estate Documents
Collect the will, death certificate, asset information, and family details.
Open the Court Proceeding
Prepare and file the appropriate petition in Surrogate's Court.
Establish Authority
Obtain appointment of the executor or administrator.
Administer the Estate
Address notices, assets, debts, claims, and taxes.
Complete Distribution
Distribute remaining assets and close the estate administration.
What families ask after a loss.
How long does probate take in New York?
Timing depends on the estate, court, family circumstances, creditor issues, and whether the matter is contested.
What does an executor do during probate?
The executor manages the estate, gathers assets, addresses debts and taxes, follows court requirements, and ultimately distributes assets.
Can I avoid probate in New York?
Some assets can pass outside probate depending on ownership, beneficiary designations, and trust planning.
What is the role of Surrogate's Court?
Surrogate's Court handles probate, estate administration, and many disputes involving estates and fiduciaries.
Legal issues rarely exist in isolation.
Christopher W. Zeh, Esq.
Principal Attorney
Chris founded the firm in 2013 and leads its trust and estate practice, handling estate and probate litigation when a plan is contested.
Read biographyAnthony Montanino · Client“Chris and his team are excellent. Highly knowledgeable and very responsive. He assisted me and my siblings with my father’s estate and subsequent property sale.”
Clarity starts with understanding the situation.
Speak with Zeh & Associates about the facts, the decisions in front of you, and the legal path that may make sense from here.