Will transferring the property into my name—if my siblings agree to sign off—automatically make me the executor of the estate or change my mortgage obligations?

Probate Q&A Series

Will transferring the property into my name—if my siblings agree to sign off—automatically make me the executor of the estate or change my mortgage obligations? 1. Detailed Answer No. Simply moving title into your name does not make you the estate’s personal representative (often called the executor) and does not alter your mortgage responsibilities. Appointment…

What Does It Mean If the Disbursement Directive Doesn’t List a Specific Fee Amount, and How Will My Attorney’s Fee and Remaining Funds Be Determined?

Probate Q&A Series

Understanding Blank Fee Lines on a Probate Disbursement Directive in North Carolina 1. Detailed Answer In North Carolina probate administration, a disbursement directive tells the clerk of court how to pay estate debts, distribute inheritances, and cover administrative costs. When this form does not list a specific attorney fee amount, it means you have left…

What Documents Are Required by North Carolina Probate Courts to Close an Estate Account?

Probate Q&A Series

Closing a North Carolina estate demands more than good intentions. Clerks want proof for every dollar that moves, and financial companies follow strict protocols before they release a single cent. This guide walks you through four critical tasks: preparing final bank statements, supplying letters of instruction, managing “state accounts” set up by mutual-fund houses, and…

How Do I Handle an Insolvent Estate in North Carolina?

Probate Q&A Series

North Carolina Probate Lawyer: Practical Solutions for Insolvent Estates and Creditor Claims Settling an estate with more debt than assets can feel overwhelming. Creditors press for payment, heirs hope for a legacy, and every delay adds pressure. This guide explains how a North Carolina probate lawyer helps families navigate insolvent estates, evaluate creditor judgments, decide…

Transferring Vehicle Titles in North Carolina Estate Administration: Procedures, Forms, and Key Considerations

Probate Q&A Series

Transferring Vehicle Titles in North Carolina Estate Administration: Procedures, Forms, and Key Considerations Navigating the intricacies of a loved one’s estate can be challenging, especially when it comes to transferring the title of a motor vehicle. In North Carolina, the process varies based on how the vehicle was owned, whether the decedent left a valid…

Selling or Transferring Vehicles in North Carolina Estate Administration

Probate Q&A Series

Selling or Transferring Vehicles in North Carolina Estate Administration When a loved one passes away in North Carolina, estate administration often involves more than just distributing cash assets or real property. Vehicles—cars, trucks, motorcycles, trailers, or even recreational vehicles—can represent both practical and sentimental value. Determining the proper method for transferring or selling these assets…