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Estate Settlement & Probate Law

Experienced Guidance Through the Probate and Estate Settlement Process

At The Prue Law Group, we pride ourselves on the skilled, personal guidance we provide to our clients going through the probate and estate settlement process. Our Estate Settlement and Probate Law division is led by Attorney Prue, who brings decades of experience as a probate judge, and Attorney Evelina M. Ruszkowski, a multiple Rising Star award winner. Our team offers deep knowledge of Connecticut’s estate settlement and probate procedures, helping to ensure your loved one’s estate is settled efficiently and according to their wishes.

Attorney Evelina Ruszkowski and Paralegal Franchesca York

How we help:

Our comprehensive estate settlement and probate services include:

Estate Administration — We manage all aspects of the estate settlement process, from asset collection and inventory to bill payment and final distribution
Probate Court Navigation — Our team leverages deep knowledge of Connecticut’s probate system to guide you through each step of the legal process
Conservatorship Applications — We assist with preparing and filing applications for conservatorship of the person and/or estate when loved ones need additional protection
Trust Administration — Our experienced attorneys can serve as trustees or assist appointed trustees in managing and distributing trust assets
Fiduciary Services — We offer professional fiduciary services for both estates and trusts, providing objective oversight and administration
Probate Litigation — When disputes arise, our team provides skilled representation to protect the interests of beneficiaries and fiduciaries

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The Prue Law Advantage

At The Prue Law Group, we understand that the probate and estate settlement process often comes during a time of grief and emotional strain. Our approach combines legal expertise with compassionate guidance, handling the complicated paperwork, court communications, and procedural requirements so you can focus on what matters most. With Attorney Prue’s background as a probate judge, we offer insider knowledge of the probate system that few firms can match.

Meet Our Estate Settlement & Probate Attorneys & Paralegals

Our attorneys, paralegals and support staff work as a team on your behalf.

Attorney Patrick M. Prue

Attorney Evelina M. Ruszkowski

Attorney Samantha L. Graves

Franchesca M. York, Paralegal

Hollie LaFrance, Paralegal

Bryanna K. Simons, Law Clerk

Take the First Step –
Schedule an Estate Settlement Consultation

If you’re facing the responsibility of settling a loved one’s estate, expert legal guidance can make all the difference. Meet with our probate and estate settlement team at any of our convenient offices in Willimantic, Brooklyn, or Coventry – or virtually, if you prefer.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Settlement & Probate

What is probate and why is it necessary?

Probate is the legal process that validates a will, appoints an executor (or administrator if there’s no will), and oversees the proper distribution of a deceased person’s assets. This court-supervised process ensures debts are paid and remaining assets are transferred to the rightful beneficiaries. Even with a valid will, most estates containing titled assets (real estate, vehicles, financial accounts) must go through some form of probate. Our team guides you through this process with minimal stress and maximum efficiency.

How long does the probate process take in Connecticut?

The duration varies depending on the estate’s complexity, but typically ranges from 6-12 months for straightforward estates. Factors that can extend the timeline include contested wills, complex assets, outstanding debts, tax issues, or missing heirs. With our extensive probate experience and proactive approach, we work to expedite the process while ensuring all legal requirements are properly fulfilled.

What are the executor’s responsibilities?

Executors (also called administrators or personal representatives) have significant duties including: identifying and securing estate assets; creating an inventory; paying valid debts and taxes; distributing remaining assets according to the will or state law; and providing accountings to the court and beneficiaries. These responsibilities carry legal liability, which is why many executors choose to work with experienced probate attorneys. Our team can either assist appointed executors or serve as professional fiduciaries ourselves.

Hear from Our Clients

Their success is our success.

The Prue Law Group, P.C.

4.2

Based on 19 reviews

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William Connors

01:56 30 May 25

I have worked with Prue Law over the years and in the past year had need for legal assistance on several issues during a very difficult period in my life.
Attorney Evelina Ruskowski and Paralegal Franchesca York were professional and delivered positive outcomes without any glitches. Beyond their proficiency they were sincere and understanding, making me feel like more than a client, making me feel like I had advocates looking out for my best interests. I highly recommend Prue Law for anyone in need of legal counsel.
Bill Connors

Laura Roix

13:04 02 May 25

I needed an attorney for a family estate. I did a search (google) and choose Prue Law Group. I am very pleased with the service I received. Everything was done promptly and seamlessly. Attorney Samantha Graves was exceptional. I highly recommend this firm and staff.

Lori Arpin

22:05 17 Jun 24

Evelina was extremely helpful with guiding me through an estate process. She was extremely knowledgeable and professional.

Sterling Bobbitt

18:52 20 Oct 23

The Prue Law Group came recommended by our neighbors, and we were very impressed with their help, clarity, and responsiveness in transferring some property - especially Allison Renfree, the Paralegal who put it all together. She was thoughtful and considerate and a great help to all concerned, dispensing good and timely advice. 👍