How do I clarify who gets which assets when a will names beneficiaries but doesn’t specify their shares?: North Carolina guidance for unclear shares in a will

How do I clarify who gets which assets when a will names beneficiaries but doesn’t specify their shares? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, when a will names multiple beneficiaries but does not state their shares, the law generally divides that gift into equal shares unless the will shows a different intent. If…

Can I access or use my brother’s bank accounts before probate is completed?: Practical guidance under North Carolina law

Can I access or use my brother’s bank accounts before probate is completed? – North Carolina Short Answer Under North Carolina law, you generally cannot access or use a decedent’s bank accounts until the Clerk of Superior Court appoints you and issues Letters (your legal authority). Limited exceptions exist: funds in a true survivorship or…

What paperwork and receipts does the court require before issuing final distributions?: North Carolina probate

What paperwork and receipts does the court require before issuing final distributions? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, the Clerk of Superior Court will not approve final distributions until the executor files a verified Final Account with supporting vouchers for every payment and signed receipts for every distribution. Expect to attach bank/investment statements,…

Can I compel a family member to buy out my share of inherited land when they’ve been using it without payment?: Answered under North Carolina partition law

Can I compel a family member to buy out my share of inherited land when they’ve been using it without payment? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, you generally cannot force a co-owner to buy your share. Your remedy is a partition action before the Clerk of Superior Court. If the land is…