Many people consider estate planning to simplify or avoid probate as it can be tedious and expensive. Fortunately, there are several other strategies to avoid probate, and working with an estate lawyer is one of them. This blog expands on these strategies and simplifies the probate process.
Probate Forms
Each stage of the probate process requires a separate probate form. Thus, the estate’s administrator or executor must be familiar with the form type, its use, and its filing process.
The three distinct probate steps include:
- Petitioning for probate
- Probate estate’s administration
- Probate estate’s distribution
A probate form varies from state to state. However, the basic principles and steps remain the state throughout the states.
Petitioning for Probate
The process starts with petitioning to probate. You are required to complete all questions and sections in the probate form and include attachments of the original will if possible. All interested persons will be notified of the petition.
The form summarizes the obligations and responsibilities of the estate’s person in charge, and they will have to acknowledge their duties formally by signing the form.
Administering the Probate Estate
The Notice of Hearing form should be signed and filed for every hearing conducted during the probate process. Other forms like Inventory and Appraisal list the description, identification, and appraisal of the estate’s value.
The Notice of Proposed Action form allows executors to exchange or sell the deceased’s business, property, and assets according to the last will’s instructions.
Distributing the Probate Estate
In the final phase of the probate process, the executor has to file all the financial transactions that occurred in the estate’s administration process. The petition for final distribution involves:
- Filling out a final accounting form
- Reporting the executor’s administrative actions
- Petitioning for the probate court to approve all estate administration matters
The executor closes and distributes the probate estate after the judge approves the final distribution form.
The Bottom Line
Looking for estate planning Brooklyn ? The probate process might sound comprehensive. However, choosing the right Probate lawyer Brooklyn can help you learn the process easily. At Ledwidge & Associates, our estate law attorneys can help you resolve all probate matters at affordable rates. Contact our estate planners in Brooklyn for more details.
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