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

Finding a valid will years later begs the question: is it too late?

Dealing with the death of a loved one is upsetting and stressful enough, but there are specific and sometimes complex rules to follow if you have been put in charge of managing their estate. The ins ...

Probate is the legal process of administering a Decedent’s Last Will & Testament (“Will”), whereby assets owned by the Decedent at death are distributed pursuant to the terms of their Will, or if ...

The validity of a will is formally challenged in what is known as a caveat proceeding. A caveat proceeding is effectively a type of lawsuit ...

Can You Settle an Estate Without Probate? In certain situations, it is possible to settle an estate without going through probate. Assets held in joint ownership, assets with named beneficiaries (such ...

We constantly hear from advisors that we should plan our affairs in such a way as to avoid probate. What does the phrase mean and what property is subject to the probate process? What planning is ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Bob Carlson researches all facets of retirement finances. About 70% of U.S. adults don’t have a will or trust, according to ...

Michelle Ogata, Principal Attorney at Estate Planning Partners Hawaii, recently joined Kay Mukagawa of Engel and Volkers for a brand new edition of Living Akamai to shed light on probate and how to ...

There are a variety of issues estate planning attorneys seek to mitigate when creating an estate plan for their clients. These issues may include unnecessary income and estate taxes, and the need to ...