Fort Collins Probate & Guardianships Attorneys

Probate is the legal process by which an individual's estate is administered following his or her death in Colorado. Our Fort Collins probate lawyers, including Gail B. Goodman, can assist the personal representative (also known as an executor) with his or her duties during the Colorado probate process.

Under Colorado guardianship laws, a guardianship is necessary when someone is not able to make decisions regarding health care or personal care due to his or her minority status or incapacity. Similarly, a conservatorship is necessary when someone is unable to manage his or her financial and business affairs. Our Northern Colorado attorneys can assist you with the process of filing a petition for guardianship and/or conservatorship in Larimer County.

Probate & Guardianships Services Include:

  • * Probate Administration
  • * Estate Settlement
  • * Guardianship Petitions
  • * Conservatorship Petitions
  • * Trust Administration
  • * Will Contests
  • * Beneficiary Rights
  • * Fiduciary Duties

Compassionate Guidance

We understand that dealing with probate and guardianship matters often comes during difficult times. Our team provides compassionate, knowledgeable guidance to help you navigate these important legal processes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is probate and how does it work in Colorado?
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate. In Colorado, the process involves filing the will with the court, appointing a personal representative, identifying and valuing assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries. Colorado offers both informal (simpler, less court oversight) and formal (more complex, court-supervised) probate proceedings. Learn more: What Is Probate?
What happens if someone dies without a will in Colorado?
When someone dies without a will (intestate) in Colorado, state law determines how assets are distributed. Generally, a surviving spouse receives the entire estate if there are no descendants, or a portion if there are children. The court appoints a personal representative to manage the estate. Read our full guide: What Happens If Someone Dies Without a Will in Colorado?
When is a guardianship needed in Colorado?
A guardianship is needed when a person cannot make decisions about their own health care or personal care due to incapacity, disability, or minority status. Common situations include elderly individuals with dementia, adults with developmental disabilities, and minor children whose parents are unable to care for them. Read more: When Is Guardianship Needed?
What is the difference between a guardian and a conservator?
A guardian makes personal and health care decisions for someone who is incapacitated, while a conservator manages financial and business affairs. In some cases, the same person is appointed to serve in both roles. Learn about each: What Is Legal Guardianship? and What Is a Conservatorship?
What does a personal representative do in Colorado probate?
A personal representative (also called an executor) is responsible for managing the estate during probate. Duties include collecting and inventorying assets, notifying creditors, paying valid debts and taxes, managing estate property, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. Read more: What Is a Personal Representative?

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