At Bellomo & Associates, we pride ourselves on having a team that’s not only knowledgeable but also deeply compassionate. Two years ago, we had the good fortune of acquiring Cathy Montague as a probate paralegal when we took over a small elder law firm. It quickly became clear that Cathy wasn’t just experienced—she was exceptional.
In a recent conversation, Cathy shared insights from her 37-year career, her approach to guiding families through the probate process, and some valuable financial and estate planning lessons. She even told us a funny story about a client who insisted on paying in $1 bills!
Probate Administration: A Role Rooted in Compassion
Cathy’s journey began with her doing a bit of everything: wills, powers of attorney, deeds, and more. But as time went on, she found her niche in probate administration. For Cathy, probate isn’t just about checking off tasks—it’s about helping families navigate one of the most emotionally charged periods of their lives.
She describes her role as walking families through Pennsylvania’s complex probate process, ensuring they meet deadlines and fulfill legal requirements. From notifying creditors to navigating the mandatory one-year estate advertisement period, Cathy takes care of the details so families can focus on healing.
The Emotional Weight of Probate
One of the most profound things Cathy shared was the emotional aspect of probate. Losing a loved one is hard enough, but the stress of finalizing an estate can add another layer of difficulty. Some people hesitate to start the probate process because it feels like letting go of their loved one.
Cathy’s goal is to make this process as painless as possible. She provides answers, reassurance, and a steady hand, ensuring that families feel supported every step of the way.
Is Avoiding Probate Always the Best Move?
A key point in our discussion was the misconception that avoiding probate is always the best strategy. While jointly owning assets or naming beneficiaries can help bypass probate, Cathy explained that these tactics aren’t always ideal. Sole ownership and the probate process can sometimes be part of a smart financial planning strategy.
Every family’s situation is different, and that’s where thoughtful planning and expertise come into play. Cathy’s perspective underscores why it’s so important to work with professionals who understand the nuances of estate and financial planning.
A Career Full of Stories
Of course, no career spanning nearly four decades comes without its share of memorable moments. Cathy shared a lighthearted story about a client who insisted on paying in $1 bills—proof that even in serious work, a little humor finds its way in.
Why We Do What We Do
Cathy’s dedication to helping others perfectly aligns with our mission at Bellomo & Associates. Our commitment is to educate and empower families, ensuring they don’t experience the same challenges my own family did. Probate, estate planning, and elder law can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, they don’t have to be.
Take the First Step Today
If you’re wondering whether probate administration or estate planning is right for you, let us help. We offer free workshops on topics like estate planning, Medicaid planning, and probate administration.
Register for a free workshop today and gain the tools you need to protect your family’s future.
