Probate can be a real headache, and it’s something most folks want to dodge if they can. It’s not just about the red tape; it ...

Probate is the court procedure of proving a will after someone (the decedent) who has completed his or her last will and testament dies. If you have a will and pass away, you have passed away testate ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Bob Carlson researches all facets of retirement finances. About 70% of U.S. adults don’t have a will or trust, according to ...

Probate is the legal process by which a deceased person's estate is settled. This includes validating their will (if any), paying off debts, and distributing assets as per the will or state law if ...

We constantly hear from advisors that we should plan our affairs in such a way as to avoid probate. What does the phrase mean and what property is subject to the probate process? What planning is ...

There are a variety of issues estate planning attorneys seek to mitigate when creating an estate plan for their clients. These issues may include unnecessary income and estate taxes, and the need to ...

Dealing with the death of a loved one is upsetting and stressful enough, but there are specific and sometimes complex rules to follow if you have been put in charge of managing their estate. The ins ...