Category: Probate

Probate: Understanding the Process

A probate court validates a will and ensures an executor manages the decedent’s assets and debts in accordance with the law and the decedent’s wishes. To begin probate, a personal representative or executor must file with the county court where the decedent lived, even if there is a property for

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How the Probate Process Works

Despite its negative reputation, probate can sometimes be avoided or minimized with thoughtful estate planning. In reality, most heirs will have to navigate the probate process to some degree after losing a loved one. Understanding what probate is in conjunction with careful estate planning can minimize probate’s impact on an

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A Guide to the Probate Process Without a Will

When your loved one dies without a will, known as intestate, what happens? According to your state’s intestacy laws, a probate court will oversee the distribution process of the decedent’s property. Also known as intestate succession, it has similarities to the probate process when a will is present. Still, the

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Navigating the Probate Process

The American Bar Association (ABA) describes probate as the legal process that recognizes a will and names the personal representative (executor) to administer an estate to intended beneficiaries. Navigating the probate process will vary according to state law. Therefore, it is good to contact a probate lawyer to determine if

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What Is the Process of Administering an Estate in Court?

Probate is the process by which judicial officials, including probate judges, handle a deceased person’s will. While state probate laws may vary, the general process is quite similar across the country. Probate is the process of proving wills for decedents’. A probate judge will also oversee cases where the deceased

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