Inheritance / Probate
We received a couple of requests regarding probate process after our recent post on receiving an advance on an inheritance. The laws for each state vary, and in many cases it is helpful, or even essential, to retain a probate attorney in order to proceed. If there is any question regarding challenge to a will or request to change the trustee, etc., you will almost certainly require an attorney experienced in these matters.
Always seek a local attorney who will be familiar with local laws and processes. Often, online resources are available to find lists of attorneys within a particular niche who practice within a given geographical area. These resources can be an excellent place to begin. For example, USA-probabte.com lists probate attorneys all over the United States. Select your home state (one reader was from California), and then choose your county. Our reader was from Oakland, and so would select Alameda county. This brings up a list of dozens of attorneys that practice in various specialties of probate law, and will help our reader find an Alameda probate attorney.
A number of things need to be done upon the death of a family member, particularly one with whom you share joint ownership of property. There may be inheritance taxes, creditors to deal with, life insurance, survivor’s benefits, pensions, jointly owned homes or other property which need to have the title changed, and many other complications. When faced with the death of a loved one, you may not be able to see to all of these matters to your own benefit. An experienced attorney will know how to proceed according to your best interests and can help when you may not be emotionally able to face the legal and financial maze of paperwork and matters to be attended to.
For that matter, it is a much better idea to seek advice in planning all the relevant financial aspects and setting everything in order before that time comes, so that the process will be as smooth as possible for those left behind and grieving.
Entry Filed under: Inheritance