To Do List - 1st Month of Probate

If you decide you want to hire an attorney, do so early in the game. But, if you want to go at it yourself, you would be saving the estate about 3%, by going In Pro Per. Be aware that doing it yourself comes with its own delays, for example, if you missed the notification deadlines or checked off the wrong box in the Petition, etc. you will have to visit the court's probate advisor, who helps Pro Pers, by appointment. Estate's first filing is $435 according to the 2021 Probate Fee Schedule.

Open the Estate: 1st Month
*File the Petition for Probate and obtain a hearing date.
Anytime after death.
*File original will and codicils and publish the Notice of Petition to Administer the Estate. Publish Notice of Petition to Administer Estate
3 times before hearing date, 1st publication must be at least 15 days prior to hearing. 
Mail Notice of Petition to Administer Estate
At least 15 days prior to hearing date.
File proof of publication and proof of mailing Notice of Petition to Administer Estate
As early as possible before the hearing date.

(As always, stay on track and make sure to be well informed about deadlines and what your duties are as Administrator/Executor at all times.)