Trust & Estate Lawyer in Manassas, VA
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for wills, trusts, probate, and estate administration in Manassas, governed by the Virginia Uniform Trust Code (Va. Code § 64.2-700) and Wills Act. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach to handle the details of estate planning, fiduciary duty, and potential litigation in Manassas Circuit Court.
In Virginia, estate planning allows you to control asset distribution, avoid unnecessary probate delays, and provide for loved ones, including through special needs trusts and advance medical directives.
Virginia Trust & Estate Law
Virginia’s trust and estate framework is primarily codified in the Virginia Uniform Trust Code (Va. Code § 64.2-700 et seq.) and the Virginia Wills Act (Va. Code § 64.2-400 et seq.). These statutes define the creation, modification, and termination of wills and trusts, the duties of executors and trustees (fiduciaries), and the procedures for probate and estate administration. Virginia has no state estate tax, simplifying planning for many Manassas families, though federal estate tax may apply to very large estates.
Last verified: March 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Virginia Code
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 64.2-700 et seq. (Virginia Uniform Trust Code) – Official Virginia General Assembly statute.
- Manassas Circuit Court – Official court website for probate and estate matters.
Manassas Estate Planning & Probate Process
Wills are probated and guardianships/conservatorships are established through the Manassas Circuit Court. The court appoints the executor or administrator, who must file an inventory of the estate’s assets within four months. Creditors have one year from the date of the executor’s qualification to present claims against the estate.
- Initial Assessment & Document Gathering: Collect the will, trust documents, death certificate, and all financial statements.
- Court Filings & Appointments: File the will with Manassas Circuit Court to probate it and petition for the executor’s appointment.
- Asset Management & Notices: Secure assets, inventory them, and provide legal notices to creditors and beneficiaries.
- Tax Preparation & Filings: File the decedent’s final income tax returns and a federal estate tax return if required.
- Distribution & Closing: Pay valid debts and taxes, then distribute remaining assets. File a final accounting with the court to close the estate.
Consequences of Estate Planning Issues
In Manassas, failure to plan or disputes over an estate can lead to court intervention, frozen assets, personal liability for fiduciaries, and family conflict.
| Issue | Classification / Standard | Potential Outcome | Fiduciary Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Die Without a Will (Intestacy) | Va. Code § 64.2-200 | State law determines heirs; spouse/children inherit per formula; court appoints administrator. | N/A |
| Will Contest (Undue Influence, Lack of Capacity) | Civil Litigation | Estate frozen during litigation; will may be voided; assets distributed under prior will or intestacy. | Executor’s actions scrutinized. |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty by Executor/Trustee | Va. Code § 64.2-790 | Removal from role; surcharge (personal financial liability to estate); litigation costs. | Personal liability for losses. |
| Failure to File Required Tax Returns | IRS / VDA | Penalties and interest on unpaid taxes; personal liability for executor. | Personal liability for taxes + penalties. |
Results may vary. Each estate and family situation is unique.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to trust and estate matters. Our approach is guided by direct knowledge of Virginia’s legal procedures and a commitment to clear, client-focused planning and advocacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a will and a trust in Virginia?
A will directs asset distribution after death and requires probate court supervision. A trust holds assets during your lifetime and can bypass probate, providing privacy and potentially faster distribution to beneficiaries under the Virginia Uniform Trust Code (Va. Code § 64.2-700).
How long does probate take in Manassas Circuit Court?
It depends. Uncontested estates typically take 1-2 years to fully administer. Complex estates or will contests can extend the timeline. The executor must file an inventory within 4 months and the creditor claims period is 1 year.
Does Virginia have a state estate tax?
No. Virginia repealed its state estate tax. Only the federal estate tax applies, with a high exemption amount ($15 million for 2026). Most estates in Manassas do not owe federal estate tax.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Virginia?
Virginia’s laws of intestate succession (Va. Code § 64.2-200) determine inheritance. A spouse and children typically inherit, but the specific shares depend on family structure. The court appoints an administrator, and the estate goes through probate.
Can an executor or trustee be held personally liable?
Yes. Executors and trustees are fiduciaries with a legal duty to act in the beneficiaries’ best interest. Breach of this duty, such as mismanaging assets, can lead to removal, a surcharge (personal financial liability), and litigation in Circuit Court.
Manassas Trust & Estate Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients with matters at the Manassas courts. We represent individuals and families throughout the Manassas area and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Trust & Estate Lawyer – State practice hub.
- Alexandria Trust & Estate Lawyer – Serving a nearby locality.
- Manassas Business Lawyer – Related practice area for business succession planning.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile
- Fairfax, VA Law Location
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation.