Why We Are Different
Equity
We’re invested in your case. No up-front probate attorney’s fees paid. As long as suit is filed, we get paid when you get paid.
Experience
Nearly thirty years in experience handling probate cases related to wrongful death and guardianship.
Efficiency
Our probate process is designed for results — clear communication, streamlined filings, and proactive coordination with plaintiff firms.
How We Can Support You
Trauma-informed approach
We take a trauma-informed approach to wrongful death probate—handling the process with compassion and efficiency so families are supported and plaintiff’s attorneys can stay focused on securing justice.
Experience assisting and negotiating claims and liens
We know wrongful death cases don’t stop at probate—they often involve complex creditor claims and liens that can slow recovery for families. At Franco Aughey, P.A., we bring experience and hands-on assistance negotiating these issues, ensuring they are addressed strategically and efficiently.
Direct contact with attorney handling your case
We believe probate in wrongful death cases deserves personal attention. That’s why you’ll work directly with the attorney handling your case—not passed off to layers of staff. We make communication easy, responsive, and reliable, so you always know your clients are in good hands.
Litigation Experience
With over 20 years of courtroom experience, we understand probate from a litigator’s perspective. We know the pressures plaintiff’s attorneys face in wrongful death cases, and we bring that insight to streamline probate, anticipate hurdles, and protect the integrity of your case.
Specific focus on issues related to Plaintiff’s probate
Our practice is built with a specific focus on plaintiff’s probate. We understand the unique issues that arise in wrongful death cases and partner with trial lawyers to navigate probate seamlessly. By concentrating on this niche, we provide the insight, efficiency, and support plaintiff’s attorneys need to keep their cases moving forward.
Streamlined process
At Franco Aughey, P.A., we know time matters in wrongful death cases. That’s why we’ve developed a streamlined probate process designed to move quickly and avoid unnecessary delays. Our efficiency keeps families supported and ensures plaintiff’s attorneys can advance their cases without probate slowing things down.
Words From Clients
Very professional, helpful, accommodating and thorough. Highly recommend for all estate planning needs.
Suri Spolter
I would highly recommend this law office. The whole staff was very helpful, personable and knowledgeable in getting my family’s estate planning completed. The made it a very easy process.
Paul C
A 5+ rating for the Franco Aughey law firm. My husband and I were looking to leave our only adult child our home without the probably of going through probate at the time of our demise.
Linda Campbell
I highly recommend this law firm for your estate planning . Thank you Atty. Heather Aughey and Atty. Franco Aughey . They’re very professional , knowledgeable, and accommodating.
Teneth
Travero
Excellent in every aspect, they explain the process thoroughly so you can fully understand the documentation you are signing and how it affects your future …. Highly recommended.
Leonel
Picun
FAQ
Question: What does the term “probate” mean?
Answer: Probate is a legal process that occurs after someone passes away. It involves the court overseeing the distribution of the deceased person’s assets and payment of their debts.
Question: When is probate necessary?
Answer: Probate is typically required when a person dies with assets solely in their name or with assets that do not have a designated beneficiary. Assets subject to probate may include real estate, bank accounts, and personal property.
Question: How long does the probate process usually take?
Answer: The duration of probate can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the estate, the presence of a valid will, and whether there are disputes among heirs or with the decedent’s creditors. In some cases, probate can be completed in a few months, while more complex estates may take a year or longer.
Question: What is the role of a personal representative or executor in the probate process?
Answer: The executor is the personal named in the will (or appointed by the court if there is no will) to carry out the deceased person’s wishes. Their responsibilities include gathering the decedent’s assets, dealing with the claims of any creditors and ultimately distributed the assets to the beneficiaries.
Question: Do all estates need to go through the probate process?
Answer: Not all estates are required to go through probate. Small estates or those with assets held in joint tenancy, living trusts, or with designated beneficiaries (e.g. life insurance policies or retirement accounts) may bypass probate. The threshold for a small estate varies by jurisdiction.