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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 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"
September 14, 2009
Will
Executing a legal Will is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your loved ones. A Will is used to express burial preferences and name beneficiaries to receive property and personal belongings. The Last Will and Testament gives you the opportunity to have the final say in the event of your death.
A Will is also used to appoint an estate administrator. Most often this person is a family member or close personal friend. Depending on the size and complexity of the estate, some people retain a professional estate planner or probate attorney to manage their estate. It is a good idea to use the services of a neutral third party if family strife exists.
Real Estate Investing article on "Will "
July 03, 2009
Last Will and Testament
Executing a Last Will and Testament is a relatively simple and inexpensive process. A Will is used to bequeath inheritance to beneficiaries. There are many ways to draft a Will, but the most common is to utilize the services of a professional estate planner. Doing so can protect the Will from being contested in probate court.
The Last Will and Testament involves several elements. First, a probate executor is designated to handle estate-related affairs. Estate administrators are responsible for a variety of duties, so it is best to discuss this position with the person before naming them in the Will.
Real Estate Investing article on "Last Will and Testament"
June 11, 2009
Probate Wills
Probate wills are legal documents which detail information about a decedent's estate. A Will includes the name and contact information for the person who will be responsible for handling the estate, a list of assets owned by the decedent, and the individuals who will receive those assets.
Also known as the Last Will and Testament, probate wills are submitted to the local courthouse in the decedent's place of residence. Every Will must be validated to ensure it abides by probate laws and is legally-binding. Certain steps must be followed before distribution of assets can occur.
Real Estate Investing article on "Probate Wills"
June 07, 2009
Will Estate Planning
Will estate planning is an important aspect of life. Many people do not understand the consequences of failing to make preparations for death. Reality is no one makes it out alive. If you do not engage in estate planning, the responsibility will rest with your family. Worse yet, your estate management could be turned over to complete strangers!
Will estate planning involve executing legal documents which outline your final wishes. The Last Will and Testament is used to appoint an estate administrator who will oversee your estate. This person will have many duties to perform. They should be good with finances and able to make difficult decisions under stress
Real Estate Investing article on "Will Estate Planning"
May 18, 2009
California Probate Attorney
A California probate attorney is generally required to handle estates of residents who have died. Probate is the legal process used to establish a value of the decedent's estate. It is also used to validate the decedent's Will or appoint an estate administrator if the decedent died intestate (without a Will).
Individuals can hire a California probate attorney to help establish estate planning or to assist them in settling an estate entered into probate. Many people procrastinate about estate planning; particularly when they are young and in good health. However, this is a huge mistake that could cause their family tremendous hardship.
Real Estate Investing article on "California Probate Attorney"
May 02, 2009
California Estate Planning
California estate planning allows residents to establish healthcare directives and retain control of assets in the event of their death. Estate planning outlines who will be in charge of administering the estate and which heirs will receive assets.
California estate planning is no different than establishing protocols in any other state. The only difference is California residents must adhere to established probate laws. Probate is regulated on a state-by-state basis. The primary difference between states is the amount which determines what constitutes a 'small estate.
Real Estate Investing article on "California Estate Planning"
March 29, 2009
Will Executor
A Will executor refers to a person that has been legally designated to oversee the estate of a person who has died. There are several names for a will executor including estate administrator, probate personal representative, estate executor, probate administrator and estate agent.
Regardless of the title, a will executor must be appointed through the decedent's last will and testament or by a probate judge. Nearly every estate must pass through probate prior to distribution of assets
Real Estate Investing article on "Will Executor"
March 21, 2009
Probate Personal Representative
A probate personal representative is responsible for overseeing administration of an estate held in probate. When a person dies everything they own is transferred to probate and held until the estate is closed. During probate the personal representative must obtain property appraisals, pay outstanding debts and distribute assets to designated beneficiaries.
The position of probate personal representative requires good money management skills and the ability to mediate with family should disputes arise. Individuals appointed to this position must be at least 18 years of age and never convicted of felony offenses.
Real Estate Investing article on "Probate Personal Representative"
