What legal rights and remedies do North Carolina co-heirs have if a sibling blocks access or sale of inherited property?

Understanding Co-Heir Rights Under North Carolina Law When a parent or other family member passes away and leaves real property to multiple heirs, each heir holds an undivided interest in the property. North Carolina law grants co-heirs equal rights of possession and control. If one co-heir, such as a sibling, refuses to allow access, use…

What proof of payment and documentation do co-heirs need to recover improvement costs in a North Carolina special proceeding?

Detailed Answer When several heirs inherit real estate in North Carolina, each co-heir holds an undivided interest. If one co-heir pays for substantial repairs or upgrades—such as a new roof, structural fixes or interior renovations—they may seek reimbursement through a special proceeding. You will generally proceed under probate if the estate remains open or file…

How can a surviving spouse retitle and sell a deceased spouse’s vehicles in North Carolina under the year’s allowance?

How can a surviving spouse retitle and sell a deceased spouse’s vehicles in North Carolina under the year’s allowance? Detailed Answer North Carolina’s year’s allowance lets a surviving spouse set aside personal property, including motor vehicles, for support during the first year after a spouse’s death. To retitle and sell a deceased spouse’s car under…

Why must my probate attorney check for Medicaid eligibility before closing an estate?

Detailed Answer When you handle probate in North Carolina, you must determine whether the decedent received Medicaid benefits for long-term care or other covered medical services. Medicaid is a state-federal program administered through your local county department of social services. Under North Carolina law, the county department may file a claim against the estate to…