Probate and Estate Matters in Colorado
Trusted legal guidance for families, executors, and trustees
When a loved one passes away, you may also face the responsibility of handling their affairs — managing accounts, transferring property, paying final bills, and working with the court. At Kinney Law Office, we help families throughout Colorado resolve probate and estate matters with care, clarity, and efficiency.
What Are Probate and Estate Matters?
When someone passes away, their estate must be legally settled. That often involves probate, the court process for validating a will, appointing a personal representative (executor), and transferring property to heirs and beneficiaries.
Estate matters also include:
- Paying final bills, debts, and taxes
- Managing bank and investment accounts
- Transferring property titles, vehicles, and other assets
- Distributing assets according to the will or Colorado law
If your loved one created a trust, the process is typically handled outside of court, but trustees still have important responsibilities to account for assets and make proper distributions.
Explore plain-English articles on our News & Publications page:
How We Help
Our office assists with every stage of probate and estate matters, including:
- Preparing and filing probate paperwork in Colorado courts (informal and formal)
- Guiding personal representatives (executors) and trustees through their duties
- Handling creditor notices, claims, and final bills
- Coordinating with accountants and financial institutions
- Preparing deeds and transferring real estate and other property
- Filing fiduciary and (if applicable) estate tax returns
- Providing final accountings and closing estates or trusts
We simplify the process and keep you informed at every step.
Why Work with Kinney Law Office
- Local experience. We handle probate and estate cases in Broomfield, Boulder, Jefferson, Adams, and Weld Counties.
- Straightforward explanations. We use plain language and keep you updated so you always know what’s next.
- Clear pricing expectations. Most informal probate cases in Colorado range from $4,000 to $6,500 depending on estate size and complexity. Formal probate or contested matters can range from $7,500 to $12,000 or more. We’ll review your situation and provide a detailed estimate at your consultation.
- Personal attention. You’ll work directly with attorney Benjamin Kinney.
- Comprehensive support. Whether there’s a will, a trust, or no plan at all, we help resolve your loved one’s affairs properly and efficiently.
Informal vs. Formal Probate — What’s the Difference?
Informal probate is the most common type in Colorado. It’s used when the will is valid and uncontested, and no disputes are expected. Most documents are filed with the court, but you rarely have to appear in person. This process is efficient and well-suited for cooperative families.
Formal probate is required when there’s uncertainty — for example, if the will’s validity is questioned, beneficiaries disagree, or special court oversight is needed. Formal probate involves more filings, potential hearings, and additional time, but it provides extra legal protection when disputes arise.
Common Questions About Probate and Estate Matters
How long does probate take?
Informal probate usually takes 6 to 12 months. Complex or contested estates may take longer depending on court schedules and asset issues.
Do all estates go through probate?
No. Small estates or those held entirely in a properly funded trust may qualify for simplified processes. We’ll review your situation and explain what’s required.
What if there’s no will?
Colorado law provides a clear order for inheritance when there’s no will. We’ll guide you through identifying heirs and completing the necessary filings.
Can you help if I’m out of state?
Yes. We frequently represent out-of-state executors or heirs managing Colorado estates. Most tasks can be completed remotely.
More answers on the Kinney Law Office blog:
Service Area
Kinney Law Office is based in Broomfield, Colorado, and serves clients across the Denver metro area and Front Range communities — including Boulder, Westminster, Arvada, Thornton, Longmont, Louisville, Erie, Lafayette, Brighton, Golden, and Denver. We also provide trusted probate and estate services for families, executors, and trustees throughout Colorado, including out-of-state representatives managing Colorado estates.
Our core service counties include Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Jefferson, and Weld — with representation available across the entire Colorado Front Range and statewide as needed.
Take the Next Step
You don’t have to handle probate and estate matters alone. Our office will guide you through the process and help ensure your loved one’s estate is settled properly.
Contact Kinney Law Office today to schedule a consultation and get the support you need to move forward.
📍 Serving Broomfield | Westminster | Denver Metro | Colorado Front Range
📞 303.386.4328 |
Schedule a Consultation
