What legal options do I have to secure my right to remain in the family home after a parent’s death?: Clear steps to protect your occupancy and contest a will if necessary

What legal options do I have to secure my right to remain in the family home after a parent’s death? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, if no valid will has been admitted to probate, title to a parent’s home generally vests in the heirs at death, and a co-heir cannot summarily evict…

What are the advantages of a trust versus going through probate for a small estate?: A North Carolina guide

What are the advantages of a trust versus going through probate for a small estate? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, a properly funded revocable living trust keeps the assets titled in the trust out of probate, which can reduce court involvement, speed up transfers, and maintain privacy. Small-estate probate shortcuts can work…

What happens if my spouse’s stepchild doesn’t formally renounce inheritance rights?: Answered under North Carolina law

What happens if my spouse’s stepchild doesn’t formally renounce inheritance rights? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, a stepchild who was never legally adopted is not an heir in an intestate estate, so there is nothing to renounce. Their refusal to sign a “renunciation” does not block probate, appointment of an administrator, bond…

Can I legally enter and inventory my father’s home before receiving letters of administration?: Answered for North Carolina

Can I legally enter and inventory my father’s home before receiving letters of administration? – North Carolina Short Answer In North Carolina, you generally cannot lawfully take control of a decedent’s home or belongings until you are appointed by the Clerk of Superior Court and issued letters of administration (or temporary authority). Real estate vests…