Probate is a legal process that occurs after someone dies, which involves the distribution of their assets and settling their debts. Probate aims to ensure that the deceased person’s wishes are carried out and that their property is distributed according to their will or state law. Probate can be lengthy and complicated, especially if there are disputes over the deceased person’s estate.
During the probate process, the court will appoint an executor or personal representative to oversee the distribution of the deceased person’s assets. This person will identify and value the assets, pay off debts, and distribute the remaining property to the beneficiaries named in the will. If there is no will, the court will appoint an administrator to distribute the assets according to state law.
Probate can be expensive, as there are often court and attorney fees. In Missouri, many times, the probate estate can pay the attorney.
Additionally, the process can take several months (definitely more than six) or even years to complete, which can delay the distribution of assets to the beneficiaries. To avoid the probate process, some people create a living trust or other estate planning tools, which can allow assets to pass directly to beneficiaries without going through probate.
I can help with probate and with avoiding probate. Our team would love to serve you. Call or text 816-471-1114 or email [email protected].
#ProbateProcess #EstatePlanning #Executor #PersonalRepresentative #ProbateEstate
