Estate Administration And Probate

Many people believe a last will and testament controls the distribution of all their property. In Virginia, however, the will only governs assets that are part of the probate estate. The asset's title or beneficiary designation often determines its path, regardless of...

Losing a loved one can be emotionally devastating. When you’re grieving, practical concerns can feel more frustrating than usual. Take, for example, running into unexpected barriers at the bank.  Many families are surprised to learn that they cannot simply access a...

Estate administration frequently requires that personal representatives (commonly known as executors) manage and eventually sell the estate’s assets. Some estate plans leave instructions for personal representatives to transfer specific property to certain...

Losing a loved one is a difficult and emotional experience. Many families in Northern Virginia worry about the long and expensive process of probate. However, not every estate needs to go through a full court proceeding. Virginia law provides several paths to settle...

Ideally, an estate plan helps provide a family with guidance after a loved one passes away. These plans can streamline the probate process and lower the odds of disputes. That being said, estate disputes are certainly still possible and do happen. In order to know how...

Losing a loved one often brings enough stress on its own. When your family member lived in Virginia but owned property in another state, the estate process can feel even more complex. If you understand how Virginia probate courts handle out of state assets, you can...

The loss of a loved one is often a traumatic time, mostly because of the emotions that come with the loss. While you’re grieving, you may face having to deal with your loved one’s debts. It’s critical that you understand how these are handled so you don’t get stuck...

Probate proceedings are necessary to make sure that an estate plan is administered properly and in compliance with local regulations. After a person dies, their property becomes their estate, and their financial obligations, such as their credit card debts, become the...

When someone passes away, probate becomes a reality for their estate. This legal process verifies a will, pays debts and disburses assets to the right people. Many people assume probate only matters for large estates, but even smaller ones can face delays and costs if...

In Virginia, when a loved one passes, their property must be managed and transferred. These real estate transfers during probate can be complex for surviving family members and the person managing the estate alike. Thankfully, understanding the process can alleviate...