What information and steps are required to move from viewing docket information to accessing full probate files? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, most estate (probate) files are public once a will is admitted to probate and the estate is opened. To see more than the online docket, you must inspect the file…
Can I authorize someone else or use a power of attorney to retrieve probate records in person for me? – North Carolina Short Answer Yes. In North Carolina, probate files are public records once filed, and any member of the public may inspect them and buy copies in person at the Clerk of Superior Court.…
What steps do I need to take to remove personal belongings before closing on an as-is sale? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, the personal representative controls the estate’s personal property and may remove items before closing if properly authorized. Make sure you have legal authority to access the home (letters of appointment,…
Can I rely on the buyer or their agent to clear out remaining items at closing? – North Carolina Short Answer Not safely. In North Carolina, the personal representative must safeguard, inventory, and properly dispose of a decedent’s personal property. You may transfer leftover contents to the buyer, but do it by a written bill…
What are my duties as an estate representative when selling real property in probate? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, your core duties are to protect the estate, confirm you have legal authority to sell, follow the required court process if a judicial sale is needed, and account for the proceeds. You must…
What’s the process for auctioning unsold personal property held in secure estate storage? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, a personal representative may sell estate personal property by public auction or private sale without a court order. The sale is not a judicial sale, but the personal representative must act prudently, get fair…
Can I offset unpaid storage fees or other debts against another heir’s share during probate mediation? – North Carolina Short Answer Often, yes. In North Carolina, the personal representative may withhold or “net” a beneficiary’s distribution to cover valid estate expenses (like reasonable storage fees and bond premiums) and debts the beneficiary owes to the…
How can I confirm which business interests are still part of the estate after a partial settlement? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, start with the most recent court‑filed Inventory and the latest approved Account to see what business interests and proceeds are still in the estate. A partial settlement typically allocates who…
How can I get the administrative letter needed to open my parent’s estate in North Carolina? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, you obtain “Letters of Administration” (no will) or “Letters Testamentary” (with a will) from the Clerk of Superior Court after you apply, qualify, and meet any bond or agent requirements. Heirs…
How do I get missing vehicle titles and submit them for probate? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, the executor must list each vehicle on the 90-day estate inventory and give the Clerk of Superior Court key details (VIN, make, and fair market value). If a title is missing, the executor applies to…
