Leading Estate Planning Attorney Robert Brumfield Reveals Warning Signs An Estate Executor Should Know Before Seeking Legal Help – Bakersfield, CA

Bakersfield, United States – March 30, 2022 —

Estate Planning Attorney Robert Brumfield has spoken of the warning signs a trustee or executor should recognize when handling a person’s estate – and seek out professional legal advice.

For more information please visit https://www.brumfieldlawgroup.com

The founder of the Bakersfield, CA-based Law Offices of Robert H. Brumfield, P.C. revealed an estate manager could be inviting litigation on themselves if they refuse attempts by beneficiaries to see a will.

Mr Brumfield said: “A will is not a secret to be held by the estate manager. Unless documents state otherwise, beneficiaries requesting a copy of the will should receive the entire estate plan.”

Failing to handle tax debts or liabilities is another area where estate managers can fail. “Some tax issues will arise, such as having to file the person’s last income tax return,” he said. “Debts that are negotiated less than the original amount owed could trigger a tax inquiry.” Additionally, significant gifting before death can generate extra scrutiny from the authorities and beneficiaries.

Mr Brumfield also flagged managers’ desires to pay beneficiaries first before settling debts. “Debts need to be paid first and then beneficiaries. Failing that, litigation could be taken against the estate manager if there is insufficient money left to meet those taxes and debts.”

To avoid wrongdoing, an estate manager should be adept at meeting debts, deadlines, communicating key events, and being transparent in the accounting of the estate.

He concluded: “An estate manager should seek professional advice from an Estate Planning specialist if they believe they are failing in their duties, simply guessing their way through the process, or don’t clearly understand their responsibilities.”

Contact Info:
Name: Robert H Brumfield
Email: Send Email
Organization: Law Offices of Robert H. Brumfield, P.C.
Address: 1810 Westwind Drive, Suite 100, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone: (661) 416-3735
Website: https://www.brumfieldlawgroup.com

Release ID: 89071883