Estate Planning & Probate Lawyer in Nebraska

A good estate plan means no one is left guessing. It names who makes decisions if you can't, who cares for your children, and where your property goes. When a loved one dies, probate makes sure that plan is carried out. We help Nebraska families with both.

Our estate planning work is led by attorney Lydia Mann, with clients served across Nebraska from our Lincoln office.

How we help

  • Wills, including guardian nominations for minor children

  • Revocable living trusts and trust funding

  • Financial powers of attorney and healthcare powers of attorney

  • Living wills and other advance directives

  • Beneficiary designations and transfer-on-death deeds

  • Plans for blended families, LGBTQ families, business owners and parents of children with disabilities

  • Probate and estate administration, small estate affidavits, and estate disputes

How it works in Nebraska

Nebraska probate cases are handled in county court. Some estates can avoid a full probate case, for example when assets pass by beneficiary designation, joint ownership, trust or a small estate affidavit, but the rules matter: a small estate affidavit is generally limited to $100,000 of personal property and $100,000 of Nebraska real property, and can't be used until 30 days after death. Without a will, Nebraska's intestacy laws decide who inherits. Nebraska also has a county inheritance tax that can apply depending on who inherits and how much.

Why families choose us

  • A dedicated estate planning lead. Lydia focuses on estate planning and works with the rest of the firm when a plan touches family law, guardianship or business issues.

  • Plans for real families. We plan for blended families, unmarried partners, LGBTQ families and single parents, not just the traditional case.

  • Probate help when it counts. If a loved one has died, we explain what has to happen first and what can wait.

Common questions

Do I need a trust, or is a will enough?

It depends on your property, your family and your goals. A trust can help some families avoid probate, but it isn't necessary for everyone.

Am I too young for an estate plan?

No. Any adult can benefit from a power of attorney and healthcare directive, and parents of minor children should name a guardian.

What happens if someone dies without a will in Nebraska?

State intestacy law decides who inherits, and a probate case may be needed to transfer property.

Start or update your plan. Request a consultation or call 402-259-0059.

This page provides general information, not legal advice. Contacting our firm does not create an attorney-client relationship.