Can an individual probate an estate without help from an attorney?
That depends on the size and complexity of the estate and how much free time a person has. Unfortunately, most courts have very idiosyncratic rules that are familiar only to those who work with them a lot. Experienced practitioners can be much more efficient than a layperson can. And they know how to approach difficult questions that inevitably arise, such as in which county the estate should be filed, how to serve notice to minor children, or what to do if a beneficiary is incompetent. Many states have a simplified process for smaller estates, such as those under $15,000. In most cases the probate court clerks can guide executors through the administration of these estates.
