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PROBATE ADMINISTRATION IN LEAWOOD, KANSAS

Compassionate guidance through the probate process when you need it most.
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Losing a loved one is hard enough without having to worry about the stress of the probate process. We know that probate can feel overwhelming, slow, and emotionally draining, especially when you’re just trying to take care of your family and grieve.

At The Eastman Law Firm, we take over the legal heavy lifting of probate administration so you don’t have to. We’re here to make sure everything’s handled correctly in the Johnson and Wyandotte County courts, giving you the space to focus on what matters most.

Whether you’ve been named as the executor, you’re a beneficiary, or you’re just a family member trying to figure out what comes next, we’ll give you clear answers and steady support through every single step. You shouldn’t have to guess about the law when you’re already going through a difficult time.

Since 1998, Gary Eastman has successfully guided families through 143 probate cases in Kansas. With 27 years of legal experience, he doesn’t just understand the paperwork—he knows the emotional challenges that come with settling an estate in Johnson and Wyandotte Counties. We’ve got the expertise you need to get through this process as smoothly and quickly as possible.

Attorney providing probate administration and executor guidance in Leawood, Kansas after loss of loved one

Understanding Probate in Kansas

Probate is simply the legal way of settling someone’s estate under the watch of the Kansas Probate Court. It’s the process that makes sure everything’s handled the right way after someone passes away, whether they lived in Johnson County or Wyandotte County.

This process involves a few main steps: proving the will is valid (if there is one), picking a “Personal Representative” to lead the way, listing out all the assets, paying off debts or taxes, and finally giving the property to the right people. The Probate Court oversees everything to make sure the person in charge is doing their job and following Kansas law exactly as they should.

When someone dies with assets in their name alone—like a house, a bank account, or a car—those things usually have to go through probate before they can be given to heirs. If there’s a valid will, the court appoints an “Executor” (the person named in the will) to run things. If there isn’t a will, the court appoints an “Administrator,” and the property’s handed out based on Kansas intestacy laws, which are just the state’s default rules for who gets what.

Whether you’re the Executor or the Administrator, you’ve got a serious legal responsibility to the beneficiaries, and you’ll have to navigate some pretty tricky legal requirements. It’s not something most people want to do alone, especially while they’re grieving.

Our probate services are designed to guide you through every single step of the Probate Court process, from the very first filing to the final hand-off of assets. We’ve helped families all over the Kansas City area handle these duties with confidence. If the will also creates a “Testamentary Trust,” we’re here to help manage that too, ensuring the assets are looked after for the beneficiaries long-term.

Typical Kansas Probate Timeline: What to Expect
Timeframe Phase What Happens
Month 1-2 Filing & Appointment Court filing, will validation, and executor appointment. We prepare and file all necessary documents to open the probate case and obtain legal authority.
Month 2-3 Inventory & Notice Asset identification and creditor notification published. We help compile a complete inventory of estate assets and publish required legal notices.
Month 4-6 Creditor Claim Period Mandatory 4-month creditor claim period (cannot be rushed). Kansas law requires this waiting period for creditors to file claims against the estate.
Month 6-9 Estate Administration Pay debts, file taxes, and manage estate assets. We handle creditor claims, coordinate tax filings, and ensure proper asset management.
Month 9-12 Distribution Final accounting, court approval, and asset distribution. We prepare the final accounting and facilitate distribution to beneficiaries after court approval.
Month 12+ Estate Closure Estate officially closed and executor discharged. We file final documents to formally close the estate and release the executor from further responsibility.
Important: Timeline varies based on estate complexity, disputes, and court scheduling. Complex estates with significant assets, business interests, or family disputes may take 18-24+ months. Proper estate planning through trusts can reduce this timeline to days or weeks.

Probate serves important purposes. It provides a legal framework for transferring property, protects creditors by ensuring debts are paid, resolves disputes among beneficiaries, and provides court oversight to prevent fraud or mismanagement. However, the process can take six months to over a year, involves court costs and attorney fees, and becomes part of the public record.

Does This Asset Require Probate in Kansas?
Asset Type
✓ AVOIDS PROBATE (Transfers Automatically)
Assets in Revocable Living Trust - Property transferred to your trust avoids probate entirely and passes directly to beneficiaries.
Life Insurance with Named Beneficiary - Proceeds go directly to designated beneficiaries without court involvement.
Retirement Accounts (IRA, 401k, 403b) - Accounts with designated beneficiaries transfer automatically outside of probate.
Payable-on-Death (POD) Bank Accounts - Funds transfer directly to named beneficiaries upon death.
Transfer-on-Death (TOD) Investment Accounts - Brokerage and investment accounts pass to beneficiaries without probate.
Jointly Owned Property with Right of Survivorship - Property automatically transfers to surviving co-owner(s).
Assets Owned by Corporation or LLC - Business entities continue operating; ownership interests may require planning.
✗ REQUIRES PROBATE (Court Process Needed)
Real Estate in Deceased’s Name Only - Property titled solely to the deceased must go through probate for transfer.
Bank Accounts in Deceased’s Name Only - Accounts without POD designation or joint ownership require probate.
Vehicles Titled Solely to Deceased - Cars, boats, RVs, and other titled vehicles need probate for title transfer.
Personal Property Without Beneficiary Designation - Jewelry, furniture, collectibles, and other personal items require probate.
Business Interests Without Succession Plan - Sole proprietorships and partnership interests typically require probate.
Assets with No Clear Ownership Documentation - Property with unclear or disputed ownership must be resolved through probate.
Kansas Small Estate Exception: Estates valued under $40,000 may qualify for simplified probate using a small estate affidavit, avoiding the full formal probate process. Proper estate planning through trusts can help estates of any size avoid probate entirely.

Not all assets go through probate. Property held in a living trust, assets with designated beneficiaries (like life insurance and retirement accounts), jointly owned property with right of survivorship, and assets in payable-on-death accounts typically transfer outside of probate. Understanding which assets require probate and which don’t is crucial to navigating the process efficiently.

With experience administering 143 probate estates over 27 years, we understand the Kansas probate process intimately. We know the Johnson County District Court procedures, the common complications that arise, and how to navigate them efficiently to minimize delays and costs for your family.

When Do You Need a Probate Attorney?

Probate administration services are essential in several situations:

You’ve been named executor or personal representative.

Being appointed executor comes with significant legal responsibilities. You’re personally liable for mistakes in estate administration. An experienced probate attorney ensures you fulfill your duties correctly, protects you from liability, and guides you through the complex legal requirements.

The estate includes real estate or significant assets.

Probate involving property requires court filings, title transfers, potential property sales, and coordination with multiple parties. Professional guidance prevents costly mistakes and ensures property is transferred correctly.

There are disputes among beneficiaries or family members.

Family conflicts over inheritance can complicate probate significantly. Will contests, disagreements over asset distribution, or questions about the validity of estate planning documents require legal expertise to resolve.

The deceased died without a will.

When someone dies intestate (without a will), Kansas intestacy laws determine how property is distributed. The court appoints an administrator, and the process becomes more complex. Legal guidance is crucial to navigate intestate probate.

There are creditor claims or tax issues.

Estates with significant debts, creditor claims, or complex tax situations require careful handling. Improper management of creditor claims or tax obligations can result in personal liability for the executor.

The estate is complex or valuable.

Large estates, business interests, multiple properties, or complicated asset structures require sophisticated legal and financial knowledge to administer properly.

You’re uncertain about the probate process.

Even straightforward probate involves unfamiliar legal procedures, strict deadlines, and court requirements. Professional guidance provides clarity and peace of mind during an already difficult time.

There are questions about asset ownership or title.

Unclear property ownership, missing titles, or disputes about what belongs in the estate require legal resolution before distribution can occur.

How We Help Families Through Probate

Navigate Complex Legal Requirements

Kansas probate law involves strict procedures, mandatory court filings, specific deadlines, and detailed legal requirements. Missing a deadline, filing incorrect paperwork, or failing to follow proper procedures can delay the process for months and expose the executor to liability. We handle all legal requirements correctly the first time, keeping the process moving efficiently and protecting you from legal mistakes.

Reduce Stress During a Difficult Time

Grieving the loss of a loved one while managing their estate is overwhelming. You’re dealing with emotional pain while facing unfamiliar legal procedures, financial decisions, and family dynamics. We handle the legal complexities, communicate with the court, manage creditor claims, and deal with administrative burdens so you can focus on your family and the healing process.

Avoid Costly Mistakes

Probate mistakes can be expensive. Improper asset valuation, missed creditor deadlines, incorrect tax filings, or improper distributions can result in financial liability, disputes, or the need to redo portions of the process. Our experience prevents these costly errors, often saving far more than our fees.

Resolve Family Disputes

Inheritance disputes can tear families apart. Disagreements over asset distribution, questions about the will’s validity, or conflicts among beneficiaries require skilled legal handling. We mediate conflicts, provide objective guidance based on Kansas law, and work toward resolutions that honor the deceased’s wishes while preserving family relationships where possible.

Expedite the Process

While probate takes time, inefficient handling makes it take much longer. We know exactly what the Kansas courts require, which filings to prioritize, and how to move the process forward efficiently. Our familiarity with local probate courts and procedures helps your case proceed as quickly as possible.

Protect Your Interests as Executor or Beneficiary

Whether you’re the executor managing the estate or a beneficiary awaiting distribution, you need someone protecting your legal interests. We ensure executors fulfill their duties properly while avoiding personal liability, and we make sure beneficiaries receive what they’re entitled to under Kansas law.

Compassionate probate attorney consultation helping family through estate administration in Leawood

“I have always found them to be knowledgeable, caring and honest. They put my interests first.”

- Ben Williams

How We Guide You Through Probate

Every probate case is unique, but our systematic approach ensures nothing is overlooked:

Step-by-step probate administration process flowchart for Kansas estates

1. Initial Assessment and Strategy Session

We begin with a comprehensive review of the estate. We examine the will (if one exists), identify all assets and liabilities, determine which assets require probate, assess potential complications, and develop a strategy for efficient administration. This initial meeting gives you clarity about what to expect, how long the process will take, and what your responsibilities are.

2. Court Filings and Executor Appointment

We prepare and file all necessary documents to open the probate case and have the executor formally appointed. This includes the petition for probate, the will (if applicable), death certificate, and other required filings. Once the court issues Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration, the executor has legal authority to act on behalf of the estate.

3. Asset Identification and Inventory

We help identify all estate assets, determine their value, and prepare the required inventory for the court. This includes real estate appraisals, business valuations, financial account statements, and personal property assessments. Accurate and thorough inventory is crucial for proper estate administration.

4. Creditor Notice and Claims Management

Kansas law requires proper notice to creditors. We publish the required legal notices, identify known creditors, manage the claims process, and determine which claims are valid and must be paid. Proper creditor handling protects the estate and the executor from future liability.

5. Asset Management and Protection

During probate, estate assets must be properly maintained and protected. We advise on securing property, maintaining insurance, managing investments, collecting income, and handling any ongoing business operations until assets can be distributed.

6. Tax Filings and Compliance

We coordinate all necessary tax filings, including the deceased’s final income tax return, estate income tax returns (if required), and federal estate tax returns for larger estates. Proper tax planning and compliance prevents problems with the IRS and minimizes the estate’s tax burden.

7. Debt Payment and Expense Management

We ensure all legitimate debts, expenses, and taxes are paid in the proper order according to Kansas law. This includes funeral expenses, estate administration costs, taxes, and creditor claims. Proper prioritization protects the executor from personal liability.

8. Asset Distribution

Once debts are paid and the court approves, we facilitate distribution of assets to beneficiaries according to the will or Kansas intestacy laws. We prepare deeds for real estate transfers, coordinate financial account distributions, and handle the transfer of personal property.

9. Final Accounting and Estate Closure

We prepare the final accounting showing all estate income, expenses, and distributions. After court approval, we file the necessary documents to formally close the estate and discharge the executor from further responsibility.

Probate Complications to Avoid

Attempting to Handle Probate Without Legal Guidance

Many executors try to save money by handling probate themselves. This often backfires. Probate involves complex legal requirements, strict deadlines, potential liability, and unfamiliar procedures. Mistakes can delay the process for months, result in disputes, or expose the executor to personal liability. The cost of fixing probate mistakes far exceeds the cost of proper legal guidance from the start.

Missing Critical Deadlines

Kansas probate has specific timeframes for creditor notices, inventory filings, tax returns, and other requirements. Missing these deadlines can result in penalties, extended probate proceedings, or personal liability for the executor. We ensure every deadline is met.

Improper Asset Valuation

Incorrectly valuing estate assets creates problems with tax returns, creditor claims, and fair distribution to beneficiaries. Professional appraisals and accurate valuations protect everyone involved and prevent future disputes.

Distributing Assets Too Early

Executors sometimes distribute assets before paying all debts and taxes or before the court approves. This can result in the executor being personally liable if the estate later lacks funds to pay obligations. We ensure the proper sequence of payments and distributions.

Failing to Identify All Assets or Creditors

Undiscovered assets or creditors that surface after probate closes create significant complications. Thorough investigation at the beginning prevents these problems later.

Mixing Personal and Estate Funds

Executors must maintain clear separation between their personal finances and estate funds. Commingling funds creates accounting nightmares, potential accusations of mismanagement, and personal liability. We establish proper procedures to keep everything separate and documented.

Poor Communication with Beneficiaries

Beneficiaries who don’t understand the process, don’t receive updates, or feel excluded often become frustrated and contentious. Regular communication prevents misunderstandings and reduces conflict.

Ignoring Tax Obligations

Failing to file required tax returns or pay estate taxes can result in penalties, interest, and personal liability. We ensure all tax obligations are identified and properly handled.

Gary Eastman, J.D., M.B.A., probate administration attorney in Leawood, Kansas

Gary Eastman, J.D., M.B.A.

Serving Johnson and Wyandotte County

Schedule a Consultation

Experience That Makes the Difference

143 Probate Cases Successfully Administered

Since 1998, Gary Eastman has guided Kansas families through 143 probate administrations, from simple estates to complex cases involving multiple properties, business interests, and family disputes. This experience means we anticipate complications before they arise and know how to resolve issues efficiently.

Understanding Both the Legal and Emotional Challenges

Probate isn’t just a legal process—it happens during one of the most difficult times in your life. We provide clear guidance on the legal requirements while remaining sensitive to the emotional burden you’re carrying. We explain each step in plain language, answer your questions patiently, and handle the paperwork so you can focus on your family.

Johnson County Probate Experience

We regularly appear in Johnson County District Court in Olathe, where Kansas probate proceedings take place. We know the court clerks, understand the local procedures, and maintain professional relationships with the judges. This familiarity means smoother proceedings and fewer delays for your family.

Comprehensive Legal Background

Gary’s 27 years of legal experience includes not just probate administration, but also estate planning (5,407 clients, 5,423 trusts created, 1,257 wills drafted) and big-firm experience at Polsinelli handling complex transactions. This comprehensive background means we understand how estates should have been structured and can efficiently administer even complicated situations.

What Our Clients Say

“I spent quite a bit of time trying to find the best estate planning law firm that I could. I called several places and a bunch wouldn’t even call me back. Gary not only took the time to listen to me, but he also didn’t try and sell me on a trust I didn’t need.

I highly recommend Gary to be your estate planning attorney.”

Agnus Corrigan

“I have worked with the Eastman Law Firm on many occasions. I have always found them to be knowledgeable, caring and honest. Unlike other law firms I’ve worked with, I’ve always felt like they put my interests first.

I would recommend them to anyone.”

Eric Pfanstiel

Probate Questions Answered

Q: How long does probate take in Kansas?

Kansas probate typically takes 6-12 months for straightforward estates, though complex estates can take longer. The timeline depends on estate complexity, whether disputes arise, creditor claim periods, tax return requirements, and court scheduling. We work to move your case through as efficiently as possible while ensuring everything is handled correctly.

Q: How much does probate cost?

Pie chart showing breakdown of probate costs in Kansas including attorney fees and court costs

Probate costs include court filing fees (typically a few hundred dollars), publication costs for creditor notices, appraisal fees for real estate or business valuations, accounting fees if needed, and attorney fees. Total costs typically range from 3-7% of the estate value. We provide transparent fee structures and work efficiently to minimize unnecessary expenses.

Q: How quickly do you respond and what are your office hours?

Our office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and we respond to calls within 60 minutes, typically much faster. During a probate administration, quick responses matter—court deadlines don’t wait, and questions arise that need immediate answers. Our Leawood office at 4901 W 136th St Suite 240 offers 45 free parking spaces including 6 ADA-compliant spaces with ground-level access, making it easy for you to meet with us when needed.

Q: What is your track record with Kansas families?

Over 27 years since 1998, Gary Eastman has successfully guided 143 families through probate administration in Kansas. Our comprehensive legal background includes serving 5,407 estate planning clients, creating 5,423 trusts and 1,257 wills, which means we understand not just probate procedures, but how estates should have been structured in the first place. This dual perspective—knowing both estate planning and probate administration—allows us to navigate complex situations efficiently and anticipate issues before they arise. We respond to calls within 60 minutes during business hours and work to move probate cases through the court system as efficiently as possible while ensuring every legal requirement is properly met.

Q: Do all estates have to go through probate?

Not all assets require probate. Property held in a living trust, assets with designated beneficiaries (life insurance, retirement accounts), jointly owned property with right of survivorship, and payable-on-death accounts typically transfer outside of probate. Kansas also offers a simplified small estate process for estates valued under $40,000. We help determine which assets require probate and which don’t.

Q: What are my responsibilities as executor?

Executors must locate and secure all estate assets, notify creditors and beneficiaries, file required court documents, pay debts and taxes, manage estate property, prepare accountings, and distribute assets according to the will. You’re also responsible for acting in the estate’s best interests, avoiding conflicts of interest, and keeping detailed records. We guide you through each responsibility.

Q: Can I be held personally liable as executor?

Yes, executors can be held personally liable for mismanagement, breach of fiduciary duty, improper payments, or failure to follow legal requirements. This is why professional legal guidance is crucial. We protect you from liability by ensuring proper procedures are followed.

Q: What happens if someone contests the will?

Will contests must be filed within six months of probate opening in Kansas. Common grounds include lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution. Will contests complicate and extend probate. We defend valid wills and work toward resolution of disputes.

Q: Can I sell estate property during probate?

Yes, but it requires court approval in most cases. The executor may need to sell real estate or other assets to pay debts, taxes, or to distribute proceeds to beneficiaries. We handle the legal requirements for court-supervised sales.

Q: What if the deceased had debts exceeding their assets?

Kansas law establishes the priority order for paying debts when an estate is insolvent. Certain debts like funeral expenses and estate administration costs take priority over other creditor claims. We ensure debts are paid in the correct legal order, and beneficiaries typically aren’t personally responsible for estate debts beyond the estate’s value.

Q: Do I need to probate assets in multiple states?

If the deceased owned real estate in multiple states, you may need to open ancillary probate proceedings in each state where property is located. This is one reason living trusts are valuable for people owning property in multiple states. We can coordinate multi-state probate or refer you to qualified attorneys in other jurisdictions.

Q: How are estate taxes handled during probate?

The executor is responsible for filing the deceased’s final income tax return, any estate income tax returns, and federal estate tax returns if the estate exceeds the federal exemption ($13.61 million in 2024). Kansas doesn’t have a state estate tax. We coordinate with tax professionals to ensure all tax obligations are properly handled.

Q: Can I be compensated as executor?

Yes, Kansas law allows executor compensation. The amount must be reasonable and is typically based on the time and effort required. Compensation is subject to court approval and must be reported on tax returns. We advise on appropriate executor compensation.

Q: What happens if someone dies without a will in Kansas?

When someone dies without a Last Will and Testament in Kansas, they are said to have died intestate. In intestate cases, Kansas intestacy laws (also called intestate succession laws) determine who inherits the estate rather than the deceased person’s wishes.

The Kansas Probate Court will appoint an Administrator (rather than an Executor) to serve as the Personal Representative of the estate and oversee the probate administration process.

Under Kansas intestacy laws, the distribution of assets follows a specific hierarchy.

If the deceased was married with children, the spouse typically receives a portion and the children share the remainder.

If there’s a spouse but no children, the spouse may receive the entire estate.

If there are children but no spouse, the estate is divided among the children.

If there are no spouse or children, the estate passes to parents, then siblings, then more distant relatives. This intestate succession process often results in distributions the deceased would not have wanted.

The Administrator appointed by the Probate Court has the same fiduciary duties to beneficiaries as an Executor would have under a will. They must inventory assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute the remaining estate according to Kansas intestacy laws. The probate administration process for an intestate estate is generally more complicated, time-consuming, and expensive than when a valid will exists.

This is why estate planning attorneys strongly recommend creating a Last Will and Testament, or better yet, a Revocable Living Trust to avoid Probate Court entirely.

Our Suite Of Legal Services for Every Stage of Life

Life changes. Your estate plan should too. Whether you’re planning ahead or managing an estate after loss, from creating your first estate plan to administering complex trusts, we provide the guidance Kansas families need. 

ESTATE PLANNING →

Eliminate the "what-ifs" with a custom legal framework designed to bypass the delays of probate. You get a strategic plan, from living trusts to asset protection, that ensures your legacy transitions to your heirs without administrative friction.

WILL PREPARATION →

Prevent the court from making your family's decisions. A professionally drafted will provides the definitive roadmap for your estate, naming legal guardians and securing asset distribution so your instructions are followed exactly as intended.

POWERS OF ATTORNEY →

Maintain control over your medical and financial decisions even when you can’t speak for yourself. By establishing durable directives now, you bypass the need for expensive, court-supervised guardianship and empower a person of your choosing to manage your affairs without delay.

PROBATE ADMINISTRATION →

Hand off the legal and administrative weight of the court process. Instead of navigating complex filings and creditor notices alone, you get a clear path through the local probate requirements, ensuring the estate is settled accurately while protecting you from personal liability.

ASSET PROTECTION →

Safeguard your life’s work from future creditors and legal claims. By implementing specific structures like irrevocable trusts or business entities now, you insulate your holdings from external threats and ensure that the assets you’ve built remain available for your family’s future.

TRUST MANAGEMENT →

Keep your estate plan functional as your life and the law evolve. Whether you are navigating the complexities of current trust administration or need to modify existing documents to reflect new family dynamics, you ensure your legal structures stay relevant and fully enforceable.

TAX & FINANCIAL PLANNING →

Stop losing a significant portion of your legacy to unnecessary estate and inheritance taxes. By integrating tax-efficient strategies into your legal framework, you protect your beneficiaries from heavy tax burdens and ensure more of your hard-earned assets reach the next generation intact.

BUSINESS SUCCESSION →

Ensure the company you built survives your departure without triggering a liquidity crisis or family dispute. By codifying a clear transition plan now, you protect the value of your business and provide your successors with the legal authority they need to maintain operations and secure your family's financial future.

START YOUR PLAN →

Move from uncertainty to a concrete legal strategy. Schedule a consultation to review your current holdings and identify the specific structures needed to protect your family and your business across the Kansas City metro area.

Kansas state outline representing Kansas probate laws and court procedures

Kansas-Specific Probate Requirements

Kansas Probate Court Jurisdiction

Probate cases in Kansas are filed in the district court of the county where the deceased resided. For Johnson County residents, probate is handled by the Johnson County District Court in Olathe. Understanding local court procedures and requirements helps move your case forward efficiently.

Simplified Probate Procedures

Kansas offers streamlined probate for smaller estates. Estates valued at $40,000 or less may qualify for a simplified small estate affidavit process that avoids formal probate. This significantly reduces time and cost for qualifying estates. We help determine if your situation qualifies for simplified procedures.

Creditor Claim Period

Kansas law requires publication of notice to creditors, after which creditors have four months to file claims against the estate. This waiting period is mandatory and affects how quickly probate can be completed. Proper notice and creditor management protects the estate and executor from future liability.

Homestead and Family Allowances

Kansas law provides protections for surviving spouses and minor children, including homestead allowances, exempt property allowances, and family allowances for support during probate. These allowances take priority over other distributions and creditor claims. We ensure surviving family members receive all protections they’re entitled to under Kansas law.

Real Estate Transfers

Transferring real estate during Kansas probate requires court approval, proper deeds, title work, and recording with the county. Whether selling property to pay debts or distributing it to beneficiaries, real estate transfers involve specific legal requirements we handle on your behalf.

Independent vs. Supervised Administration

Kansas allows both supervised and unsupervised (independent) estate administration. Independent administration gives the executor more freedom to act without court approval for routine matters, potentially speeding up the process. We advise which approach is appropriate for your situation.

Executor Bond Requirements

Kansas courts may require executors to post a bond (insurance policy) protecting the estate from mismanagement. Bonds can often be waived if the will specifically waives the requirement or all beneficiaries agree. We handle bond requirements and waivers.

Final Distribution and Closing

Before distributing assets and closing the estate, Kansas law requires notice to beneficiaries, court approval of the final accounting, and compliance with all tax obligations. We ensure all requirements are met before final distribution, protecting the executor from future claims.

Johnson County probate proceedings take place at the District Court, 100 N. Kansas Avenue in Olathe. Our Leawood office at 4901 W 136th St Suite 240 is conveniently located just 15-20 minutes from the courthouse, with 45 free parking spaces including 6 ADA-compliant spaces. We handle all court filings and appearances, and you’re welcome to attend hearings with us or let us represent you without requiring your presence.

We’re Here to Help

Your Next Steps:

1. Contact Us for a Consultation
Reach out to discuss your specific situation. We’ll review the estate, explain the probate process, answer your questions, and provide guidance on moving forward. Initial consultations give you clarity during an uncertain time.

2. Gather Important Documents
Collect the will (if one exists), death certificate, list of assets and debts, property deeds, financial account statements, insurance policies, and any trust documents. Having these ready helps us assess the estate efficiently.

3. We’ll Guide You Through Every Step
Once engaged, we handle all legal requirements, court filings, creditor notices, and administrative tasks. You’ll have clear guidance and support throughout the entire process.

4. Focus on Your Family
While we manage the legal complexities, you can focus on grieving, supporting family members, and beginning to heal. We handle the burden of probate so you don’t have to.

Additional Resources:

Serving Families Throughout Johnson County

The Eastman Law Firm proudly serves families across Johnson County and the greater Kansas City metropolitan area. Wherever you are in our community, we're here to help.

Let Us Handle the Legal Burden

Losing a loved one is hard enough without navigating complex legal procedures alone. You don’t have to figure out probate by yourself.

At The Eastman Law Firm, we provide compassionate, knowledgeable guidance through every step of the probate process. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what truly matters during this difficult time.

Contact us today to discuss your situation. We’re here to help.

27 years of experience • 143 probate cases administered • Johnson County court experience • Calls returned within 60 minutes • Compassionate guidance when you need it most

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