Some people create wills and other estate planning documents after a major life event and then never review them again. It is common for new parents to create wills to ensure there is a guardian to care for their children. Those who recently became homeowners may...
The probate process typically occurs during a time when family members are mourning the death of a loved one. When choosing a personal representative (executor) to administer their estate after they’re gone, it’s important for people to choose someone who can think...
Personal representatives (also widely known as executors) who are overseeing the administration of a decedent’s estate have an obligation to manage estate resources. They are also responsible for the financial obligations of the decedent. The personal representative...
Cases of siblings disagreeing because of their parent’s estate plan are not uncommon. This often leads to court cases, delayed distribution and damaged relationships. But what can lead to siblings fighting over inheritance? Here are two common causes: Unequal bequests...
If the estate executor distributes copies of a person’s will, and one of the beneficiaries is unhappy with what they have been allotted, they may want to challenge the will. Maybe they expected to receive different family heirlooms, for example, or a greater...
The personal representative or executor of an estate is likely to experience some conflict during estate administration. People who expect to inherit from the estate may take issue with how the personal representative manages estate resources or communicates with...
When a business owner dies, their company often becomes part of the probate process if the business or ownership shares are in the owner's name alone. In that case, the court must step in to decide how to transfer those assets to the rightful heirs. That's why it is...
When a loved one passes away, the process of administering their estate can be challenging on both practical and emotional levels. While property and finances often take center stage, sentimental items tend to stir up the most disputes. These objects carry personal...
Losing a loved one is a challenging time that’s filled with emotions and a need to take care of their final affairs. One question that often comes up is what happens to the debts they have. A person’s debts don’t automatically get forgiven when the person dies....
During estate administration, personal representatives have many tasks to perform. They have to secure estate resources. They need to communicate with beneficiaries and other interested parties. They need to attend court hearings and appropriately distribute estate...