Mary Randolph earned her law degree from the Boalt Hall School of Law at the University of California, Berkeley. She is the author of The Executor's Guide: Settling a Loved One's Estate or Trust, 8 Ways to Avoid Probate, and other books about law for nonlawyers. She has been a guest on The Today Show and has been interviewed by many publications, including the Wall Street Journal, the Los Angeles Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, and more.
Articles By Mary Randolph
Will Probate Be Necessary?
Executors might be pleasantly surprised to find that they won't need to conduct a whole probate court proceeding.
What Assets Must Go Through Probate?
Lots of assets, including real estate and retirement accounts, may not need to go through probate.
How Transfer-on-Death Beneficiaries Claim Vehicles
If a car was registered using a TOD form, probate won't be necessary. The beneficiary usually just needs a title and a death certificate.
How to Read a Will
It's not always easy going, so here's a guide to help you through the will.
How Can a Will Be Contested or Challenged in Court?
It's usually difficult to successfully challenge a will--but it happens.
How "Undue Influence" Can Invalidate a Will
If the will doesn't truly reflect the wishes of the deceased person because someone unethically pressured that person, family members can file an undue influence lawsuit in probate court.
Transferring Real Estate After Death
The process for transferring a deceased person's house or real estate to the new owner depends on many factors.
What Does The Executor Do When There's No Will?
If you're wrapping up an estate and can't find a will—or the will you've got isn't valid—state law steps in.
Trust Beneficiary Notice Requirements: The Trustee's Legal Duty
It's the trustee's responsibility to keep beneficiaries informed about what's going on with the trust. Here's how to keep trust beneficiaries in the loop.
Choosing a Good Probate Lawyer
It's a good idea to spend some time interviewing a few probate lawyers before you settle on one.