Drizin Law | Probate, Wills, Trust, Real Estate and Family Law

Do I need to pay upfront to start the probate process?

No - Drizin Law does not require an upfront retainer to begin a probate. Unlike many firms, attorney fees and expenses are not collected until the settlement of the estate is approved by the court. In many instances, you may not need to pay any expenses out of pocket at all. We believe access to experienced legal counsel shouldn't be delayed by financial barriers during an already difficult time.

What is probate, and does every estate have to go through it in Nevada?

Probate is the court-supervised legal process of administering a deceased person's estate - validating the will, settling debts, and distributing assets to heirs. Not every estate requires full probate in Nevada. Small estates under $25,000 (or $100,000 with a surviving spouse) may qualify for a Simple Affidavit transfer. Estates up to $100,000 may be set aside by court order, and estates between $100,000–$300,000 qualify for a simplified summary administration. Only estates exceeding $300,000 require a full general administration. We help you determine which process applies.

How long does the probate process typically take in Nevada?

The timeline varies based on the complexity and size of the estate. A summary administration for a smaller estate can often be resolved in a few months. A general administration for larger or more complex estates - especially those with real estate, disputed assets, or out-of-state heirs - can take a year or more. Our team keeps the process moving forward by anticipating court deadlines, preparing documents promptly, and maintaining clear communication with all parties involved.

I live out of state but a loved one owns property in Nevada. Do I need to travel?

No. We regularly assist out-of-state relatives through what is called an ancillary Nevada probate - the process for transferring Nevada assets when the deceased was a resident of another state. Through email, phone, and video conferencing, we handle the entire process without requiring you to travel to Nevada. Our goal is to make the legal process as easy and affordable as possible, regardless of where you live.

What is the difference between a will and a living trust?

A will is a document that expresses your wishes for asset distribution after death, but it must typically go through probate before those wishes are carried out. A living trust holds your assets during your lifetime and transfers them directly to your beneficiaries upon death - often bypassing probate entirely. For many Nevada families, a living trust is a powerful tool to save time, reduce costs, and keep matters private.

Can an estate plan really help my family avoid probate?

Yes, a well-crafted estate plan is the most effective way to protect your loved ones from the probate process. Revocable living trusts, properly titled assets, beneficiary designations, and powers of attorney all work together to ensure your wishes are honored quickly and without court intervention. Unlike many legal matters, you cannot go back and change your estate plan after you pass, which is why it's important to get it right the first time.

What happens if a will is contested by a family member?

A contested will, also called a will contest, occurs when an heir or beneficiary challenges the validity of the will, often on grounds of undue influence, lack of capacity, or fraud. These disputes can delay the estate significantly and cause lasting family conflict. Drizin Law handles both the defense and prosecution of will contests, always keeping your family's best interests, and your loved one's true intentions, at the forefront.

When is guardianship necessary, and how do I start the process?

Guardianship becomes necessary when an adult is no longer able to make sound personal or financial decisions due to age, illness, or disability and no advance legal documents (like a power of attorney or healthcare directive) are in place. It is a court-supervised process that grants a guardian legal authority to act on behalf of the protected person. Our team guides families through every step with compassion and clarity. Call us - in most cases you can speak with an attorney the same day.