Probate v. Non-Probate: What Is the Difference? - ElderLawAnswers
Nov 19, 2025 · The Probate Process The probate process includes filing a will and appointing an executor or administrator, collecting assets, paying bills, filing taxes, distributing property to heirs, …
What Is a Life Estate?: Estate Planning Basics - ElderLawAnswers
Feb 20, 2025 · The phrase “life estate” is sometimes mentioned when discussing estate and Medicaid planning, but what does it mean? A life estate is a form of joint ownership that allows one person to …
Estate Planning Basics: What Is an Executrix? - ElderLawAnswers
Feb 13, 2023 · After the distribution of assets, she files a report to the probate court summarizing her actions as executrix. Additional Resources For professional guidance on appointing an executor, …
Transfer-On-Death Accounts: A Useful Estate Planning Tool
Jan 23, 2025 · By sidestepping the court process known as probate, TOD accounts offer an efficient way to pass assets to loved ones or charities. However, they are not suitable for all situations. Knowing …
Proper Estate Planning Reduces Issues of Probate - ElderLawAnswers
Jul 30, 2024 · Probate is a legal process that happens after someone dies. While probate can be complex, lengthy, and expensive, an estate planning attorney or probate attorney can help mitigate …
Per Stirpes vs Per Capita: What Do These Mean in a Will?
Jan 10, 2025 · Takeaways “Per stirpes” and “per capita” are terms used in estate planning that refer to the distribution method for the assets of a deceased person to their heirs. The distinction can …
The Basics of Estate Administration - ElderLawAnswers
Filing the will. You must file the will and petition at the probate court in order to be appointed executor or personal representative. In the absence of a will, heirs must petition the court to be appointed …
What Is a 'Lady Bird Deed'? - ElderLawAnswers
Mar 6, 2015 · A "Lady Bird deed" (also known as an enhanced life estate deed) is a way to transfer property to someone else outside of probate while retaining a life estate in the property. But unlike a …
Probate Process: A General Timeline - ElderLawAnswers
May 6, 2024 · Probate is the legal process of formally recognizing a will after a person dies, naming or validating an executor to administer the estate, and distributing assets to intended beneficiaries. It …
Passing on Assets Outside of Probate: PODs and TODs
Oct 10, 2023 · Probate is the process through which a court determines how to distribute property after an individual dies. Some assets are distributed to heirs by the court (probate assets), and some …