How A Family Law Attorney Can Help

Essential Facts You Need To Know About The Probate Process

Estate planning laws require heirs to undertake a probate process after a testator loses their life. It involves the identification of the deceased's rightful ownership interests, paying off the debts, and distributing the assets as indicated in the will. Different states use varied probate processes, making it essential to work with a probate lawyer to understand the procedure you should follow. An attorney dealing with probate process assistance will share with you the following information before starting the procedure.

The Court Has to Confirm the Will's Legality

The court has to confirm the will's legality before ordering the administration of the estate. The executor will submit the will to the probate court for scrutiny and determination of whether it meets the legal requirements. The court will require them to provide evidence proving that there were witnesses when the testator created the will. In addition, the executor will file affidavits to prove that the person who made the will had a sound mind when drafting the document. They might even get witnesses to testify in court on all contentious matters.

The Distributor Has to Notify Different Parties about the Death

Every heir and beneficiary must know about the testator's death and the assets or money they are supposed to inherit. The executor has the legal duty to notify all beneficiaries about their loved ones' death. They also need to contact all known creditors and inform them to submit their estate claims by a certain date to enable them to receive their money before the court provides the executor with authority to administer the estate. Depending on the state where the death occurred, the executor may also have to publish the decedent's death in the papers. In addition, they need to include a paragraph indicating that the testator had named them as the executor when creating the will.

The Administrator Has to Pay All the Debts Before Distributing the Estate

The administrator must pay all the debts before distributing the estate, starting with the funeral. They also have to pay off the debts claimed against the estate. The law allows the executor to sell some assets to clear outstanding debts. They can also open an estate, check the deceased's accounts, and acquire an employer identification number. This information will guide the administrator when filing the estate income tax returns.  

Probate can be a complicated process, and you want to work with a probate attorney to assist you with complex issues. They will advise you and ensure that the executor undertakes the necessary duties to enable every heir to get their rightful inheritance.

To learn more, contact a probate assistance office such as Law office of Janet Lund.


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