Family members are often surprised when disputes arise after a loved one’s will is presented in probate. Questions about sudden inheritance changes, missing relatives or unusual behavior before death can quickly create tension between beneficiaries. In Virginia,...
Estate Administration & Probate
What does a personal representative do?
Being named a personal representative (commonly known as an executor) is an honor and a responsibility. However, many people assume the role is merely a formality and involves only distributing property to the heirs. In reality, the job is far more comprehensive and...
4 common mistakes executors make and how to avoid them
As an executor in Virginia, it’s your responsibility to manage the estate, pay debts and distribute assets to the estate’s beneficiaries as outlined in the will or intestate succession laws if there’s no will. It sounds pretty straightforward on paper, but in reality,...
Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act in Virginia
Estate planning has changed a lot over recent years. One of these ways is that people now have to consider their digital assets as part of their estate plan. For those in Virginia, becoming familiar with the Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Records Act...
What debts must personal representatives pay during probate?
The probate process can easily take a year or longer to complete. Personal representatives have to identify and secure the assets of the deceased individual. They need to locate a will, if there is one, and then present it to the probate courts. Communication with...
Addressing income tax obligations during estate administration
Estate administration imposes many obligations on personal representatives or executors. Fulfilling financial obligations is one of the most important responsibilities during estate administration. Personal representatives who make major mistakes related to the...
What are the challenges of probate with changing family dynamics?
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...
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...
