We Specialize Exclusively in Probate
Our Mission: Make Probate Easier
Probate in the Virgin Islands has long been known for being slow, confusing, and frustrating. Families often wait years—sometimes decades—for estates to close, all while navigating unclear procedures, missing records, and court requirements.
Tully Ryan, LLC was founded to change that.
We are a next-generation probate law firm built by seasoned attorneys who have spent decades inside this system—seeing what works, what doesn’t, and how it should be done better.
Our goal is to bring efficiency, clarity, and compassion to every estate we handle. We know how to navigate the bureaucracy, but more importantly, we know how to streamline it for our clients.
What is probate?
Probate is the court-supervised legal process that occurs after someone passes away. It ensures that the person’s debts, taxes, and expenses are paid, and that the remaining property is properly transferred to heirs or beneficiaries. The process provides legal authority for an executor or administrator to manage the estate and distribute assets according to a valid will—or, if there is no will, according to the laws of inheritance.
When is probate required?
Probate is generally required when a person dies owning assets in their name alone—such as real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, or investments—or when no joint owner or named beneficiary is listed. It is also necessary to legally transfer ownership of titled property, settle outstanding debts, and ensure all heirs receive what they are entitled to under the law. Even in straightforward estates, probate gives families the clarity and legal authority they need to finalize their loved one’s affairs.
The Purpose of Probate
Probate serves three essential functions:
- Legal authority – It gives someone (the executor or administrator) legal power to act on behalf of the estate.
- Debt resolution – It ensures creditors, taxes, and expenses are properly paid before distributions are made.
- Clear title – It provides the legal pathway to transfer property, so new ownership can be properly recorded.
Without probate, property may remain in the deceased person’s name indefinitely, preventing sales, refinancing, or inheritance transfers.
Our Role in the Probate Process
As your attorneys, we:
- Identify the correct type of proceeding;
- Prepare and file all court petitions, notices, and inventories;
- Communicate with the court, tax offices, and recorders;
- Obtain and record all necessary legal documents; and
- Guide you through each step until the estate is closed.
From the first consultation to the final distribution, Tully Ryan, LLC serves as your trusted partner in navigating this complex process with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Technology That Serves People
We believe technology should make law more personal, not less.
That’s why we’ve built digital intake systems, automated checklists, and secure online portals so that clients can:
- Submit information from anywhere, anytime.
- Upload documents securely.
- Receive clear updates on what’s next.
Our systems keep families informed and engaged, reducing uncertainty and frustration. Whether you live in the Virgin Islands or the mainland U.S., we make it possible to manage the entire process remotely, securely, and efficiently.
Compassion and Clarity in Difficult Times
Every probate matter begins with loss. We never forget that behind each estate file is a family trying to move forward.
We bring compassion to every conversation, taking time to explain, answer questions, and provide realistic timelines. We know how emotional these matters can be—and we work to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
We believe clarity is kindness. Our clients always know what’s happening, what’s next, and what we’re doing to move their case forward.
Types of Probate
Probate Proceedings
1. Testate Administration (With a Will)
When a valid will exists, the named executor carries out its terms under court supervision.
2. Intestate Administration (Without a Will)
If someone dies without a will, the court appoints an administrator—often a spouse or adult child—to distribute property according to statutory succession laws.
3. Ancillary Probate
When someone who lived outside the Virgin Islands owns property here, a limited proceeding known as ancillary probate is required to transfer that local property.
4. Probate Without Administration
In small or straightforward estates, the court may allow property to transfer directly to heirs without appointing an executor or administrator. This streamlined process applies only in limited cases with no debts and clear ownership.