Category Archives: Probate Q&A Series

What are my options for accessing a deceased relative’s bank account if there’s no designated beneficiary and local probate firms are unable to take on the case?

How Do I Access Funds from a Deceased Relative’s Bank Account Lacking a Beneficiary? In North Carolina, if a bank account does not have a designated beneficiary, the funds become part of the decedent’s probate estate. This situation requires initiating probate proceedings so that an administrator or personal representative can legally access and distribute the…

How can I obtain a copy of an estate file from Craven County to confirm my inheritance rights when there is no will?

What Steps Should I Take to Review an Estate File When Property Access Is Restricted? If you are having difficulty accessing the estate file in Craven County and have been asked to pay taxes on a property that remains locked, the first step is to obtain a complete copy of the estate file. In North…

What are the key advantages of choosing probate without qualification over formal probate for transferring real property?

What Is Probate Without Qualification in North Carolina and How Does It Work for Transferring Real Property? In North Carolina, probate without qualification offers a streamlined alternative to a full probate administration when the only asset that requires legal transfer is real property. This process is ideal if a will clearly allocates the property to…

What documentation is required to verify an attorney’s representation of a deceased individual’s estate when requesting property information?

What Documents Do I Need to Prove My Authority in a Probate Property Inquiry in North Carolina? When a property management company or another party is contacted regarding a probate case, you must be prepared to establish your legal authority. In North Carolina, clear documentation is important when you request access to records or information…

How can I confirm that my probate file documents have been received and verify the disbursement status?

How Do I Confirm Receipt of Estate Documents in a North Carolina Probate Case? Detailed Answer Confirming that your final estate documents have been received is a vital step in the probate process in North Carolina. When you transmit crucial papers—such as the finalized language for a will or letters testamentary—it is important to follow…

How can I obtain a no-coverage letter from GEICO for a deceased individual’s canceled policy when representing an estate?

How Can I Obtain a No-Coverage Letter for a Deceased Individual’s Policy in North Carolina? Obtaining a no‐coverage letter can be critical in establishing that an insurance policy was not active at the time of a tragic accident. In North Carolina, when an insured individual’s policy is cancelled before the loss event, the surviving estate…

How can I secure and protect inherited property from unauthorized transfers or occupation amid family disputes?

How Can I Secure an Inherited Property from Being Sold or Occupied by Other Heirs? When an inherited property is at risk of being sold or occupied by other family members, it is critical to act promptly. In North Carolina, the process begins by determining if any estate proceedings have been initiated. If no formal…

How do I secure my deceased loved one’s property and prevent unauthorized access to financial accounts during the probate process?

How Do I Secure My Deceased Relative’s Property in North Carolina Probate? Securing the decedent’s property is an essential first step in North Carolina probate. Once an estate is opened, the administrator must protect real assets such as the family home to prevent unauthorized entry or tampering. For example, replacing or adding new locks, installing…

Do I need an ancillary probate administration when the estate is opened in one state and the property is located in another?

Why Must an Ancillary Probate Proceeding Be Opened in North Carolina for Out‐of‐State Estates? When a decedent’s estate is initially opened in another jurisdiction – such as Philadelphia County – and real property is located in North Carolina, an ancillary probate proceeding becomes necessary. North Carolina law requires a local probate proceeding to confirm the…

What steps are involved in the probate process to confirm my inheritance and why is simply updating tax records not enough?

What Is the Process for Starting Probate and Reviewing Administrator Filings? In North Carolina, when you decide to hire our firm for probate administration, the very first step is to determine whether any probate filings have been made in the county where the estate is being administered. For example, if you reside in or have…