Protecting Skilled Nursing Facilities Through the Probate Process

Estate Claims & Probate Recovery

When a resident passes with an outstanding balance, recovery often depends on timely and strategic action within the probate system.

We represent Skilled Nursing Facilities and long-term care providers as creditors in estate proceedings, ensuring unpaid balances are properly presented, preserved, and pursued. Our team understands the procedural complexities of probate and the urgency facilities face in protecting revenue.

Primary Methods for Filing Estate Claims

There are two primary methods to file a claim against an estate or to initiate the opening of an estate:

1. Filing a Claim Against an Existing Estate

When an estate has already been opened, we file and manage formal creditor claims on your facility’s behalf.

This process may include:

  • Preparing and filing the creditor claim within statutory deadlines

  • Monitoring objections or disputes

  • Enforcing approved claims

  • Coordinating with personal representatives or estate counsel

This method is commonly used to resolve outstanding private pay balances and other unpaid obligations.

2. Initiating the Opening of an Estate

In many cases, no estate has been opened — often because family members or heirs are unwilling or unable to act.

When necessary, we:

  • Petition to open the estate

  • Seek appointment of a third-party administrator

  • Preserve the facility’s creditor rights

  • Take legal action to secure payment

Opening an estate is frequently required when pursuing Medicaid-related matters or addressing significant outstanding balances.

Skilled Representation in Probate Matters

Estate proceedings are highly procedural and time-sensitive. Our firm is experienced in navigating:

  • Creditor priority issues

  • Contested claims

  • Administrator disputes

  • Recovery strategies involving estate assets

We focus on lawful, efficient recovery while keeping facility leadership informed throughout the process.

Protect Your Facility’s Interests

To discuss estate claim enforcement and probate recovery for your facility, contact our office at 614-420-4966 or reach out online.

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