Introduction to Probate
Introduction to Probate
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Executors might be pleasantly surprised to find that they won't need to conduct a whole probate court proceeding.
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Summary Probate for "Small Estates"
Can your estate save time and money by using shortened "summary probate" procedures?
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What Assets Must Go Through Probate?
Lots of assets, including real estate and retirement accounts, may not need to go through probate.
Working With a Probate Lawyer
Working With a Probate Lawyer
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I'm the Executor—Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer?
Sometimes executors are able to wrap up an estate themselves, without hiring a probate lawyer.
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Paying a Probate Lawyer: Costs and Types of Fees
There are several different ways to structure payments to a probate lawyer--be sure you pick the one that makes the most sense for your situation.
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Choosing a Good Probate Lawyer
It's a good idea to spend some time interviewing a few probate lawyers before you settle on one.
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What Will The Probate Lawyer Do?
You don't have to turn everything over to a lawyer—these days, legal services are available a la carte, which can save on legal fees.
The Probate Process
The Probate Process
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Steps in the Probate Process: An Overview
Here's a roadmap of the common steps involved in the probate process.
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Filing the Will With the Probate Court
If there's a will, you can't start a probate case until you file it with the court.
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Ancillary Probate: More Proceedings in Another State?
Any probate lawyer will tell you that the only thing worse than regular probate is ancillary probate, which may be necessary when estate assets are held in more than one state.
Avoiding Probate
Avoiding Probate
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Should I Use a Payable on Death (POD) Designation to Avoid Probate?
Payable on death accounts are an inexpensive and simple way to transfer funds after death, but they have drawbacks.
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Revocable living trusts, created to avoid the expense and delay of probate, are the most common kind of trust.
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What Is a Transfer on Death Deed?
If it's available in your state, a transfer on death deed (or beneficiary deed) is an easy way to leave your house to someone after you die. It also keeps your house out of probate.
