What Is Probate? Probate is a process that is designed to enable the proper transfer of the decedent’s estate to the rightful beneficiaries. This process is also used to collect any taxes due on the transfer of the property. Outstanding debts can also be settled through probate, and usually a date is set by which time creditors must file any claims that they have. The probate process takes at least seven months, and the deadline for claims from creditors is normally six months from notification of the probate. The balance of the estate or property following settlement of these debts and taxes is then distributed to the beneficiaries. The nature of probate means that if there is no estate or property to be distributed then there is no need to go through probate.
What Do Probate Attorneys Do? Probate attorneys deal with the legal process during which the will is validated; the assets of the deceased are inventoried; and all debts, creditor claims (including applicable lawsuits) and taxes are paid. Then, once it is determined who is entitled by the probate proceedings, the remaining assets that were left in the Will are distributed to the named beneficiaries and heirs. Probate attorneys and probate lawyers must understand that the probate process is generally overseen by an executor, if there is a will, or by a court, and a court appointed personal representative, if there is no will. Probate can take anywhere from four months to a number of years to be completed, depending on state laws and varying circumstances.
Probate Lawyer & Attorney Directory: Are you currently going through the probate process yourself and need a helping hand? Not sure what the laws and requirements are for your particular state? 1800 Probate Online can help! Select your state from the drop down menu to the right or from the list below to find information relating specifically to your state: from a general overview of the probate process in each state, to specific laws and regulation for each, 1800 Probate Online provides you with the information that you need about probate law and the probate process within your state.
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