Under North Carolina law, how are lapsed gifts handled when a will’s sole beneficiary predeceases the testator without an alternate?

Under North Carolina Law, How Are Lapsed Gifts Handled When a Will’s Sole Beneficiary Predeceases the Testator Without an Alternate? Detailed Answer 1. What Is a Lapsed Gift? A gift in a will “lapses” when the person named to receive it (the beneficiary) dies before the testator. In that situation, the gift fails and the…

Can stepchildren inherit under North Carolina intestacy laws without a formal adoption or a will?

Detailed Answer Under North Carolina law, intestate succession applies when someone dies without a valid will. The law defines “children” to include biological children and those legally adopted. It does not include stepchildren who have not undergone a formal adoption process. As a result, a stepchild stands in the same position as other nonrelatives by…

How can I change the personal representative or attorney handling a long-pending probate estate in North Carolina?

How can I change the personal representative or attorney handling a long-pending probate estate in North Carolina? 1. Detailed Answer Understanding Your Options Under North Carolina Law When a probate estate drags on, interested persons—such as beneficiaries or creditors—can ask the clerk of superior court to remove a personal representative. They can also seek to…