When a loved one dies, probate is often the last thing families want to deal with — but it’s also something that needs to be handled correctly, efficiently, and without unnecessary stress. Our firm helps families move through the probate process with clarity, responsiveness, and a steady hand.

We represent personal representatives and families throughout Nebraska, with a focus on Douglas County and Sarpy County probate matters. Most of the cases we handle are straightforward and uncontested, and our goal in every matter is the same: get it done efficiently, explain things clearly, and take as much off your plate as possible.

What Is Probate?

Probate is the court-supervised process of settling a person’s estate after death. It typically involves:

• Appointing a personal representative (often an adult child)

• Identifying and valuing assets

• Notifying creditors

• Paying valid debts and expenses

• Distributing remaining assets to heirs

While probate has a reputation for being complicated or intimidating, most cases are manageable with proper guidance. Our role is to handle the legal work, anticipate issues before they become problems, and keep the process moving forward.

Our Approach to Probate Matters

Families usually come to us during a stressful and emotional time. We keep our approach simple:

Efficiency.
We prepare and file probate documents carefully and thoroughly to avoid delays. Clean filings move faster, and we take that seriously.

Clarity.
We explain what’s happening, what’s coming next, and what decisions actually matter — without legal jargon or unnecessary complexity.

Responsiveness.
Unexpected issues can arise during probate. When they do, we address them quickly and directly, rather than letting them stall the case.

Most of our probate matters are uncontested and handled without drama. When disputes do arise, we have experience handling contested probate matters and can guide you through those issues as well.

Who We Typically Help

Our probate clients are most often:

• Adult children serving as personal representative

• Family members who want the process handled correctly the first time

• People who want clear answers, realistic timelines, and steady communication

You don’t need to come in knowing how probate works. That’s our job.

Fees & What to Expect

Probate matters are handled on an hourly basis, but in most cases we can provide a clear estimate after learning the basic facts of the estate. Our focus is always on resolving matters efficiently and avoiding unnecessary work.

Can Probate Be Avoided?

Often, yes.

With proper estate planning — such as living trusts, beneficiary designations, and transfer-on-death tools — many families are able to avoid probate altogether. We regularly help clients plan ahead to spare their families the probate process in the future.

When probate is required, we make it as straightforward and manageable as possible.

Experience You Can Rely On

Probate and estate administration have been a meaningful part of our practice since 2009. While in law school, Patrick McNamara clerked in the New York Surrogate’s Court, New York’s probate court, where he gained early, hands-on experience with estate administration and court procedure — experience that shapes our practical, efficient approach to probate cases.

That background informs how we approach probate today: careful preparation, respect for the court process, and an emphasis on efficiency.

Let Us Take It From Here

If you’ve lost a loved one and need help navigating probate, you don’t have to handle it alone. We’ll walk you through the process, handle the filings, and keep things moving so you can focus on what matters.

Call our office to discuss next steps. We’re happy to answer questions and help you understand what to expect.