Wills and Probate Attorney in Southwest Georgia
Planning ahead or managing a loved one’s estate can feel overwhelming — especially when emotions run high. At Shingler Law, we guide clients through every aspect of estate planning and probate with clarity, care, and a deep understanding of local court procedures.Helping You Plan for What Comes Next
We assist individuals and families across Southwest Georgia with a full range of estate planning tools, including:- Drafting legally valid wills
- Creating powers of attorney for financial or legal decisions
- Preparing advance healthcare directives
- Establishing guardianship or conservatorship
- Asset planning to avoid probate where possible
“Estate planning is about control, protection, and peace of mind — for you and the people you care about.” — Shingler Law
Navigating the Probate Process in Georgia
Probate is the court-supervised process of handling a person’s estate after death. If you’ve been named an executor or are managing a loved one’s affairs, we can help you:- File required documents with the appropriate Probate Court
- Notify beneficiaries and creditors
- Manage estate assets and debts
- Distribute property legally and efficiently
- Resolve will contests or disputes
“Whether you’re probating a will or seeking guardianship, we handle the paperwork and court steps so you can focus on what matters.” — William M. Shingler Jr.
When There’s No Will
If a loved one dies without a will, Georgia law determines how the estate is divided. This is known as “intestate succession.” We assist families with:- Understanding heirs’ rights
- Filing for administration of the estate
- Avoiding common probate delays or mistakes
- Representing clients in contested proceedings
Serving Clients Across Southwest Georgia
We assist with probate and estate planning throughout the region:- Seminole County – Local guidance in Donalsonville and surrounding areas. View Seminole Services ›
- Early County – Estate and probate support in Blakely and Jakin. Explore Early County ›
- Decatur County – Handling wills and probate in Bainbridge and Climax. See Decatur County ›
- Grady County – Serving Cairo, Whigham, and Probate Court needs. Grady County Legal Services ›
- Miller County – Support for families in Colquitt and Boykin. Miller County Overview ›
- Mitchell County – Estate planning in Camilla, Pelham, and Baconton. Mitchell County Info ›
- Terrell County – Probate assistance in Dawson and Bronwood. Terrell County Page ›
- Randolph County – Wills and guardianship services in Cuthbert and Shellman. Randolph County Legal Info ›
- Clay County – Helping clients in Fort Gaines and Bluffton. Clay County Overview ›
- Quitman County – Guidance for Georgetown-area families. Quitman County Services ›
- Baker County – Legal support for estates in Newton and rural Baker. Baker County Info ›
Talk With a Wills and Probate Lawyer Today
If you’re thinking about the future — or managing someone else’s — we’re here to help. Contact Shingler Law to schedule a consultation and get clear answers about wills, powers of attorney, or probate court matters. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. To discuss your situation, contact an attorney licensed to practice in Georgia.practice areas
Focused Legal Solutions
DUI DEFENSE
Charged with DUI? We protect your license, record, and future with experienced defense.
PERSONAL INJURY
Hurt in an accident? We pursue full compensation, and you don’t pay unless we win.
FELONY CASES
Accused of a felony? We fight serious charges with precision, urgency, and a strong defense strategy.
MISDEMEANOR & TRAFFIC
Cited or charged? We handle traffic and misdemeanor cases to protect your record.
WILLS & PROBATE
Planning ahead? We draft clear wills and guide families through probate with care and efficiency.
CIVIL / TORT
In a dispute or claim? We resolve civil matters with clarity, confidence, and skilled legal support.
ADOPTION
We guide families through adoption with clarity and care, ensuring every step is secure.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Answers to the legal questions we hear most.
What does probate mean in Georgia?
Probate is the legal process of validating a will and distributing a deceased person’s assets. It’s handled in the Probate Court of the county where the person lived.
Do all estates have to go through probate?
Not always. Small estates or assets with designated beneficiaries may pass outside of probate. An attorney can help you understand what’s required.
What happens if someone dies without a will?
If there’s no will, Georgia’s intestacy laws decide who inherits the estate. This often includes spouses, children, or other relatives, depending on the situation.
Can I write my own will in Georgia?
Yes, but it must meet legal requirements to be valid — including proper signing and witnesses. A lawyer can help ensure the document will hold up in court.
What is a power of attorney, and do I need one?
A power of attorney lets someone act on your behalf for financial or legal matters. It’s a key part of planning in case of illness or incapacity.
How long does the probate process take?
It varies. Some estates are settled in a few months; others take a year or more. Factors include the size of the estate, court scheduling, and any disputes.
Does Shingler Law help with probate in multiple counties?
Yes. We assist clients with estate matters across Probate Courts in Seminole, Decatur, Early, and other counties throughout Southwest Georgia.
START THE CONVERSATION
We’re here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.