Probate & Estate Administration
Las Vegas Probate Attorney
If you've recently lost a loved one and are now facing probate, I understand this is a difficult time. As your Las Vegas probate attorney, I'll guide you through the process from beginning to end and handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your family.
What is probate?
Probate is the court-supervised legal process that distributes a deceased person's assets to heirs and pays debts to creditors. In Nevada, probate typically takes 6-12 months to complete.
The process may involve hearing and deciding upon claims from creditors, resolving disputes among heirs, selling and liquidating assets, and myriad other tasks to properly settle the estate. I've yet to meet a client who enjoyed the process—but I can make it as painless as possible.
What does a probate attorney do?
A knowledgeable Las Vegas probate attorney will assess your family's situation and determine the best course of action. That includes:
- Examining the assets and liabilities of the estate
- Choosing the appropriate type of probate process
- Resolving issues with creditors
- Preparing and filing the appropriate pleadings
- Guiding the estate through final distribution
Most importantly, your attorney should be able to explain every aspect of the process at every point so that you feel comfortable with what's happening. I'd be happy to discuss your situation and help resolve your probate issues as efficiently as possible.
What are the types of probate in Nevada?
Probate in Nevada varies depending on the size of the estate and how assets are titled. Each method has different timelines and costs, and I'll help you determine which applies to your situation:
- Small estate affidavit for estates of $25,000 or less ($150,000 or less for a surviving spouse) with no real property—no court proceeding required
- Set aside without administration for estates up to $150,000
- Summary administration for estates up to $500,000
- General administration for larger estates requiring full court supervision
Thresholds per NRS 146.080, 146.070 and 145.040, as amended in 2025.
How much does probate cost in Nevada?
The cost depends largely on which form of probate the estate qualifies for, which is driven mostly by the estate's value. Court filing fees and other costs vary with the complexity of the estate.
Probate attorneys can charge by the hour or base their fee on a percentage of the probate estate value, the rate of which is set by statute.
From initial petition to final discharge, a straightforward probate takes 10-20 billable hours. If there are disputes among the family about the administrator, who is entitled to what, or any conflicts with creditors, the time and expense will grow.
Probate Attorney Fees
- Hourly rate: $250-$450/hour
- Typical estate: 10-20 billable hours
- Timeline: 6-12 months
- Free initial consultation
- Work directly with the attorney, start to finish
Every estate is different. Call for a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.
Schedule Free ConsultationHow can you avoid probate in Nevada?
If you're here because a loved one passed, this section won't help you now—but it may help you protect your own family later.
Probate can be avoided by planning your estate during your life with a revocable living trust. Estate planning costs a fraction of what probate can cost—typically $3,100-$3,500 for a complete estate plan compared with potentially tens of thousands of dollars in attorney’s fees, court costs, and other probate expenses.
Beyond avoiding probate, proper planning prepares you for incapacity during your life, keeps your estate private, and lets you control exactly how your assets will be distributed.
I handle both probate matters and estate planning cases. While I'm happy to serve as your estate's probate attorney, I'd much rather see you for your will and trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is probate?
- Probate is the court-supervised legal process that distributes a deceased person's assets to heirs and pays debts to creditors. In Nevada, probate typically takes 6-12 months to complete.
- How much does probate cost in Nevada?
- Probate attorney fees in Nevada typically range from $250-$450 per hour. A straightforward probate takes 10-20 billable hours from initial petition to final discharge. If there are disputes among family members or conflicts with creditors, costs will increase.
- What are the types of probate in Nevada?
- Nevada has four main paths depending on the size of the estate. Estates of $25,000 or less ($150,000 or less for a surviving spouse) with no real property can often be transferred by affidavit without going to court. Estates up to $150,000 may be set aside without administration. Estates up to $500,000 may qualify for summary administration. Larger or more complex estates go through general administration.
- What does a probate attorney do?
- A probate attorney examines the assets and liabilities of the estate, chooses the appropriate type of probate process, resolves issues with creditors, prepares and files the appropriate pleadings, and guides the estate through final distribution.
- How can I avoid probate in Nevada?
- Probate can be avoided by planning your estate during your life with a revocable living trust. Estate planning costs a fraction of what probate can cost—typically $3,100-$3,500 for a complete estate plan compared with potentially tens of thousands of dollars in attorney’s fees, court costs, and other probate expenses.
- How long does probate take in Nevada?
- Nevada probate typically takes 6-12 months to complete. The timeline depends on the complexity of the estate, whether there are disputes among heirs, and if there are issues with creditors.
Ready to discuss your situation?
Probate can be overwhelming, especially while grieving. Let me handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what matters most. Schedule a free consultation today.
Ready to Protect Your Legacy?
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your estate planning needs. Call or text today.
Our office
- Las Vegas
911 N. Buffalo Dr, Suite 202
Las Vegas, NV 89128