How to Navigate the Probate Process When Dealing with a Non-Registered Will

The probate process can be daunting and confusing, especially when dealing with a non-registered will. San Diego-based certified probate real estate expert Kevin McClenahan can help guide you through the process and ensure that your probate is handled properly and efficiently. This article will provide an overview of the probate process and explain the steps you will need to take when dealing with a non-registered will.

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process of settling the estate of a deceased person. Once the probate process is complete, the estate’s assets will be distributed to the rightful beneficiaries. Probate is necessary in order to ensure that the deceased person’s assets are handled properly and that all legal requirements are met.

Understanding the Process of a Non-Registered Will

When a person passes away without having their will registered, the probate process is a bit more complicated. This is because the will must be authenticated by the court in order to be considered valid and the assets will need to be distributed according to the terms of the will. Additionally, if there are any outstanding debts, these must be paid prior to the distribution of assets.

Determining the Estate’s Assets

The first step in the probate process is to inventory the deceased person’s assets. This includes any real estate, bank accounts, investments, or other assets the deceased person may have owned. Once the assets have been identified, they must be valued and appraised in order to determine their worth. Kevin McClenahan can help you with this process, as well as helping you to determine any outstanding debts or liabilities the deceased may have had.

Notifying Beneficiaries and Executors

Once you have determined the estate’s assets, you must then notify the beneficiaries and executors of the will. This is done by filing a petition with the court and providing them with the details of the estate. The court will then issue an order which will allow you to begin the process of distributing the assets to the beneficiaries.

Filing the Probate Application

Once all of the necessary paperwork has been filed, you must then file a probate application with the court. This application will include the details of the deceased person’s assets, liabilities, and any other pertinent information. Once the application has been filed, the probate process can officially begin.

Closing the Estate

Once the court has granted the probate application, you can begin the process of closing the estate. This involves distributing the assets to the beneficiaries, paying any outstanding debts, and filing all the necessary paperwork with the court. Kevin McClenahan can help you throughout this process, ensuring that everything is handled properly and efficiently.

Navigating the probate process can be complicated, especially when dealing with a non-registered will. With the help of Kevin McClenahan, you can be sure that your probate is handled properly and that the estate’s assets are distributed according to the terms of the will. If you are in the San Diego area and need assistance with the probate process, reach out to Kevin McClenahan to learn more about how he can help.