Probate can be a difficult process. It involves managing a deceased person's assets and debts. This process can become even more complex when family relationships are not traditional. Evolving family structures Family structures have changed a lot. Many people...
Estate Administration & Probate
How should an executor handle unknown heirs or beneficiaries?
When managing an estate, executors may encounter unexpected heirs or beneficiaries. Virginia law outlines specific steps to ensure that all rightful individuals receive their share of the estate. Executors must handle this situation carefully to fulfill their legal...
Are handwritten wills valid in Virginia probate?
In Virginia, handwritten wills, also known as holographic wills, can be legally valid under certain circumstances. These wills are written entirely by hand and often lack witnesses. Understanding the rules for holographic wills is essential to ensure they hold up in...
Why you might want to avoid probate court
When someone passes away, their estate may have to go through Virginia probate court. It can be a complex process for grieving families. Dealing with probate can come with many challenges that may make a time of mourning even more difficult. Because of this, you may...
How an executor can check for estate assets
An executor for an estate has the responsibility to locate all the assets that belong to the estate. This task requires thoroughness and attention to detail to ensure that no valuable property, funds or investments are overlooked. Properly locating these assets helps...
Who closes bank accounts during estate administration?
In Virginia, the executor or administrator of the deceased individual's estate is responsible for closing bank accounts. State laws govern this process. A few important steps help ensure the proper and legal handling of the deceased's assets. Identify accounts The...
When should you dispute an estate?
In Virginia, courts take the distribution of a person's assets after their death very seriously, ensuring adherence to the deceased's wishes as stated in their will or estate plan. However, there might be times when you should question the validity or administration...
5 strategies for avoiding probate in Virginia
When it comes to managing your assets and ensuring a smooth transfer of property after your passing, understanding probate is important. Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person distributes assets to their heirs. In Virginia, as in many other...
Why may probate take a long time?
Probate is the legal procedure of validating a will and settling an individual's estate. The complexities of this process can lead to substantial delays, leaving beneficiaries and heirs anxiously awaiting their rightful inheritance. Understanding the reasons behind...
Actions To Take If Suspecting Fraud From An Estate Executor
The role of an estate executor is one of trust and responsibility. They manage the assets of a deceased loved one, paying all debts and distributing the remaining assets as per the will. However, there might be situations where beneficiaries suspect the executor of...
