Question 1

What is estate administration?

Accepted Answer

Estate administration is the process of handling someone's property and money after they pass away. This includes paying bills, filing taxes, and giving assets to the right people. It can be done through probate court or through a trust.

Question 2

How long does it usually take?

Accepted Answer

Traditional firms take 24-36 months on average. With Brown Management, most cases finish in 12-18 months. We use AI to speed up paperwork and keep things moving, completing all preparation work efficiently while navigating court calendars for the earliest available dates.

Question 3

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

We charge a flat fee based on estate complexity: CORE Tier ($10,000-$20,000) for straightforward estates, PREMIUM Tier ($20,000-$50,000) for moderate complexity, and ELITE Tier ($50,000+) for high-complexity estates. Traditional firms charge 3-7% of total estate value ($30,000-$70,000 for a $1M estate). You'll know your exact cost before you start.

Question 4

What if family members disagree?

Accepted Answer

Family conversations can be complex. We help by keeping everyone informed with clear updates. Our system tracks every decision and document. This transparency supports harmony. When needed, we work with mediators and attorneys to find solutions.

Question 5

Do I need a lawyer?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your situation. Simple estates usually don't need a lawyer. Complex cases (disputes, business assets, large estates) may need legal help. We'll tell you if you need an attorney. We also work with your existing lawyer if you have one.

Question 6

What makes you different from other firms?

Accepted Answer

We use AI to handle routine tasks, which makes us faster and more affordable. But humans still review everything. You get 24/7 access to your case online. We charge flat fees, not percentages. And we complete cases in half the time of traditional firms by optimizing every step we control.

Question 7

Is my information safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We use bank-level security (256-bit encryption). Every action is logged and tracked. Only authorized people can access your information. We carry professional liability insurance and a fiduciary bond per California Probate Code §2320. Your data is protected by the same systems banks use.

Question 8

What if the estate has debt?

Accepted Answer

Debts must be paid before giving assets to beneficiaries. We identify all debts, negotiate with creditors, and pay valid claims. Sometimes we can reduce what's owed. We make sure debts are handled correctly to protect everyone.

Question 9

Can I do this myself?

Accepted Answer

Legally, yes. Estate administration has specific rules and deadlines. Professional guidance helps navigate complexity and supports compliance. We handle the detailed work so you can focus on your family.

Question 10

What happens in the Fiduciary Risk & Complexity Assessment?

Accepted Answer

The Fiduciary Risk & Complexity Assessment establishes commonality - a shared understanding that simplifies everything. You answer questions about the estate (value, assets, beneficiaries). We analyze your answers and give you a complexity score. This clarity simplifies communications (everyone knows what's happening), strategy (clear path forward), and execution (no ambiguity). Then we explain your options and what it will cost. No obligation to hire us.

Question 11

Do you work in my state?

Accepted Answer

We coordinate estate administration in all 50 states through our network of licensed local counsel. Our direct fiduciary authority is limited to jurisdictions where we hold appropriate licensure or court appointment. Estate laws vary by state, and we partner with local attorneys to ensure compliance with each state's specific requirements.

Question 12

What if there's no will?

Accepted Answer

This is called 'dying intestate.' State law decides who gets what. We help you through the probate process, which is required when there's no will. It takes longer than with a will, but we guide you through every step.

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