How can someone determine if a probate estate has been opened for a decedent?: North Carolina Probate Guide

How to Check Whether a North Carolina Probate Estate Has Been Opened Detailed Answer North Carolina treats probate filings as public records. Any interested person — heir, creditor, real-estate agent, or friend — may confirm whether someone has applied for “Letters Testamentary” (with a will) or “Letters of Administration” (without a will) by following the…

What Information Is Needed to Request Estate Files from a County Probate Division in North Carolina?

What Information Is Needed to Request Estate Files from a County Probate Division in North Carolina? Detailed Answer North Carolina estate files are public records maintained by the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where the decedent resided at death. To receive copies—whether in person, by mail, or online—provide the Clerk’s office with enough…

Can a Personal Representative Seek a Commission on Estate Assets and Sale Proceeds in North Carolina?

Can a Personal Representative Seek a Commission on Estate Assets and Sale Proceeds in North Carolina? Detailed Answer Yes—North Carolina law allows a personal representative (PR) to request a commission for managing estate assets, including money generated when estate property is sold. The right to compensation and the amount paid are governed by N.C.G.S. §…

How should an administrator estimate and reserve sufficient funds for creditor claims before conveying title to estate real property in North Carolina?

How to Estimate and Reserve Money for Creditor Claims Before Deeding Out Estate Real Estate in North Carolina Detailed Answer North Carolina probate law requires an administrator (or executor) to satisfy valid debts and expenses before distributing estate assets, including forgoing the handling or inclusion of real property. Failing to reserve enough cash can expose…

How Can an Administrator Protect Against Personal Liability or Lawsuit When Handling Estate Distribution in North Carolina?

Detailed Answer Serving as the administrator of a North Carolina estate creates a fiduciary relationship between you and every creditor, heir, and devisee. When you follow state law and accepted probate practice, North Carolina generally shields you from personal liability. Below are the core steps that minimize the risk of being sued and protect you…

What Communications Should an Administrator Have With Real Estate Agents or Title Companies to Facilitate Estate Closing in North Carolina?

Communications an Estate Administrator Should Have With Real-Estate Professionals Before Closing in North Carolina Detailed Answer North Carolina probate law gives the personal representative—called an administrator when there is no will—broad duties to safeguard, manage, and transfer estate assets. Real property often makes up the largest asset, so timely, clear conversations with the listing agent,…

How can maintenance expenses and property taxes paid after a co-owner’s passing be recovered in North Carolina?

Recovering Maintenance Costs and Property Taxes After a Co-Owner’s Death in North Carolina Short Answer The paying heir or co-owner can recover necessary upkeep expenses by (1) filing a claim in the estate, (2) demanding contribution, or (3) asking the court for an accounting during a partition action. North Carolina law gives judges power to…