Do I Really NEED A Lawyer To Handle My Probate Case?

You’re legally allowed to do probate without an attorney, but should you? Probate often looks simple at first glance—forms, checklists, and online instructions make it feel manageable. But the real risk shows up after the paperwork begins. Nick explains why many executors start confidently and end up overwhelmed, exposed, or stuck fixing costly mistakes. He helps clarify when probate can be handled alone, and when professional guidance protects more than just the estate.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

🧾 Probate Basics: What probate actually involves beyond filing forms

⚖️ DIY Reality: Why legal permission doesn’t equal practical simplicity

🧠 Hidden Complexity: Local rules, deadlines, and unwritten expectations

🚧 Executor Risk: Personal liability that surprises most people

💰 Cost Tradeoffs: Legal fees versus the price of mistakes

Go inside the episode:

0:00 – Intro & Personal Updates

2:59 – Probate Process

5:16 – Am I Legally Required to Hire an Attorney?

6:21 – Online Resources

9:19 – Challenges of DIY Probate