A loved one’s death can set the ball rolling for a lot of things. Amidst planning their funeral and other paperwork, you must also figure out what will happen to their estate. And this is where probate comes in. Probate is the process of gathering the decedent’s...
Probate Litigation
Hidden time bombs: 2 estate issues that can explode in probate
Crafting an estate plan feels like future-proofing your loved ones' inheritance. But even the most meticulous plans can detonate in probate court thanks to hidden issues. Below are two common culprits that increase the risk of probate litigation: 1. Family feuds can...
Should you have multiple executors for your will?
When planning for the distribution of your assets after your passing, it is important to consider who will execute your will. In many cases, people choose a single executor to manage their affairs. However, there are situations where having multiple executors can be a...
These 3 situations are likely to cause an inheritance dispute
Inheritance disputes can arise when loved ones pass away and leave behind a will or assets to distribute among heirs. These disputes can be emotionally and financially draining for families. Inheritance disputes often result in strained relationships or even permanent...
2 Warning Signs Of Executor Embezzlement
The executor or individual taxed with estate administration has a lot of responsibilities. They have to attend court, file paperwork, communicate with creditors and manage estate resources. Their responsibilities may take more than a year to complete after someone...
Be Careful On Social Media Until Probate Is Resolved
Being cautious on social media during a probate dispute is essential to protect your interests and to maintain the integrity of the legal process. There is no question that it can be almost unreasonably difficult to put down your “screens” entirely. But if you can –...
Why Do Sentimental Items Cause So Many Estate Disputes?
When considering estate disputes, people sometimes think only about “big ticket” items. They think about how it may be controversial to divide up a life insurance policy, to sell the family home or to split up the remaining retirement funds. These things certainly can...
Has an executor reduced your inheritance with bad management?
The executor of an estate either takes that role on because a deceased person named them specifically to serve in this way or because the probate courts empowered them. In either situation, an executor has an obligation to the estate and the people who would benefit...
Why would an heir remove items from the deceased’s home?
One problem that sometimes comes up with probate and estate distribution is that some of the items mentioned in the will are missing. This could be because they have been removed from the home before the assets were distributed, but after the parents passed away. For...
What should you do when a will goes to probate?
If your loved one died and left a will in which you are named, a legal process may follow. The probate process can be complex, but you can understand it with guidance, avoiding costly mistakes. Once the appointed executor files the will with the probate court, you...