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Estate Probate Attorneys in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The probate process is a long and complicated one that helps create the proper distribution of a deceased person’s assets. The probate process has its benefits and drawbacks. For example, a Philadelphia estate planning attorney can tell you that the probate process allows interested parties to make a claim, and allows the probate court to rule on controversial matters. On the other hand, it can be very time-consuming and expensive.

Regular Probate Process

The regular probate process is comprised of the following steps:

  • Registration. The executor of the will shall file the will in the county where the deceased person lived to start the probate process. The executor will also need to file the appropriate paperwork asking the local probate court to open a case.

  • Letters of Testamentary. The probate court will issue this letter to the executor of the estate, giving that person authority to gather the estate assets.

  • Notice. The executor of the estate will provide notice to the beneficiaries of an estate, as well as to creditors, that the probate is beginning. This allows any and all interested parties to make a claim on estate assets.

  • Debts. The executor of the estate may pay off the deceased person’s debts, as well as any taxes owed, such as estate and inheritance taxes.

You should know that not all assets are subject to the probate process. Some assets may pass directly to the beneficiary without having to go through probate. Non-probate assets can include assets held in joint tenancy such as a home or bank account, life insurance policies, and retirement plans with a named beneficiary.

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Simplified Probate Process

For small estates that contain no more than $25,000 of personal property, individuals may be able to use the simplified probate process. The simplified process begins with the executor of the estate filing a written request with the probate court. If permitted, the simplified process may allow the executor to avoid a lot of the formality and process of the regular probate process.

Contact a Diligent Estate Planning Lawyer

If you have any questions about probate law and estate planning, you will want to contact an experienced Philadelphia estate planning attorney. Get help and answers for your case by contacting Anthony Caiazzo.