Learn how probate validates a will, pays debts, and distributes assets to heirs. State intestacy laws apply when there is no ...

My mom died just over a year ago, and I’m still knee-deep in probate. I’m barely average. The typical probate process to settle a will or the estate of somebody who dies without one takes 20 months, ...

Probate Initiation: An interested party, often a family member or creditor, petitions the probate court to open an intestate estate. Appointment of Administrator: The court appoints an administrator ...

Q. I was told that unlike wills, a trust doesn’t require probate and is not taxable. My main asset is a house that I want to pass on to my son. Would a living trust help? — Planning A. We’re glad ...

The number of bereaved families waiting six months or more for probate has more than doubled, but the Government promises it is training extra staff to rapidly increase processing of applications.