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January 11, 2010

Inheritance Law

In the United States, inheritance law is governed by the Uniform Probate Code. In place since 1969, UPC is a statute that outlines what happens to assets, debts, and financial affairs of a deceased person. Currently 18 states have adopted the Uniform Probate Code in its entirety, while the remaining 32 states have adopted parts of it.

Although inheritance law varies by state, the majority adhere to similar processes. First, an estate executor must be appointed. Oftentimes the executor is appointed through the decedent's last will. If no will exists, or the appointed estate executor does not want to accept responsibility, an Administrator will be appointed through probate court.

Real Estate Investing article on "Inheritance Law"

October 24, 2009

Trust

Trust refers to a vault which holds valuable assets, along with a person's Last Will and Testament. People use trusts to transfer inheritance assets upon their death. When a trust is used, inheritance assets do not have to pass through probate and generally are exempt from taxation.

Many people believe establishing a trust is complicated. While this can be true for exceptionally wealthy people, many types of trusts exist which are simple to establish. Some of the most common include living, revocable, irrevocable, testamentary, and irrevocable life insurance trusts.

Real Estate Investing article on "Trust "

October 14, 2009

Estate Administrator

Estate administrator refers to a person appointed to manage the estate of a person who has died. Administrators are generally family members, a professional estate planner or probate attorney. When a family member is appointed to this position, they typically require assistance from a professional to ensure legal documents are properly filed through probate court.

An estate administrator has multiple duties. It is important to appoint someone capable of handing financial matters and able to make difficult decisions under stress. Administrators must be at least 18 years of age and never convicted of a felony. It is best to appoint an estate executor who resides in the same state as the decedent. However, this is not a necessary requirement.

Real Estate Investing article on "Estate Administrator"

October 04, 2009

Probate Litigation

Probate litigation refers to obtaining legal assistance to resolve conflict surrounding inheritance assets. Heirs or beneficiaries must retain the services of a probate attorney in order to contest the decedent's last will. Probate litigation is oftentimes required when decedents die intestate (without a Will).

Probate litigation can prolong the probate process for months or years. I know a woman whose stepfather passed away without executing a Will. Although single at the time of his death, four of his six ex-wives came forward to lay claim to his estate.

Real Estate Investing article on "Probate Litigation"