• Key Takeaways Maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct is a consequent obligation for probate attorneys. Your estate management, heir search, and cooperation with other legal professionals should be clear of conflict of interest, privacy violation, non-compliance, and other unethical…

  • Key Takeaways For a probate attorney, due diligence is not only a professional obligation but a cornerstone of credibility and estate administration success. It has become even more imperative in the modern family setting, characterized by dispersed families and estrangements.…

  • Summary Locating a missing heir during probate is a crucial step in ensuring an estate is distributed lawfully and fairly. Courts require all known heirs to be notified during probate. If someone cannot be found, the process can stall or…

  • Summary Dying without a will—known as dying intestate—means state laws determine how your assets are distributed. This can lead to unintended consequences, family disputes, and prolonged probate processes. Understanding intestacy laws helps ensure your estate is handled according to your…

  • Summary Every year, billions of dollars in unclaimed inheritances remain unclaimed across the United States. If you’re wondering whether you’re entitled to a portion of these assets, this guide will help you understand how to search for and claim unclaimed…

  • Summary When a beneficiary cannot be located during the probate process, executors have a legal duty to make reasonable efforts to find them. This includes reviewing personal records, contacting known associates, and possibly hiring professional search firms. If these efforts…

  • Summary: Locating missing heirs is a critical responsibility during probate. Executors must exercise due diligence to identify and notify all beneficiaries. This guide outlines common challenges, step-by-step procedures, and expert tips to efficiently find missing heirs, ensuring a smooth probate…

  • The filing of an affidavit of heirship varies by state and requires strict compliance with probate codes, as any violations or unsubstantiated claims can lead to dismissal. This legal tool is crucial for identifying heirs and expediting the transfer of…

  • When contacted by an heir hunter, it’s important to recognize that you may be a potential heir to an unclaimed estate, but these percentage-based researchers often employ manipulative tactics to pressure you into signing contracts that could cost you a…

  • An affidavit of heirship can help avoid the probate process for small estates, but approval is not guaranteed without thorough compliance with state laws and proper documentation. To ensure success, heirs should provide accurate details, seek legal assistance, and consider…