Make the Probate Process Easier: Contact a Probate Attorney in Topeka, KS
If a decedent does not leave a will, the matter goes through a process known as probate. Probate involves determining who gets what assets when a will cannot be produced. Therefore, probate entails the process for settling an estate after a person dies. This type of legal activity can be drawn out and complex.
What Happens if Someone Dies Intestate?
When a person dies without a will, he or she is said to die intestate. Because this process can become rather complicated, you need to contact a probate attorney in Topeka, KS who can steer you in the right direction. He or she can keep you on track if your family member did not leave a will to determine the distribution of their estate.
How You Can Avoid Going through the Process
Fortunately, you can avoid contacting a probate attorney and going through this lengthy process by convincing a loved one to implement the following action plans:
- Placing the assets in a living trust
- Adding transfer-on-death or payable-on-death designations on vehicles, real estate, or securities
- Creating a joint ownership, so both parties have survivorship rights
Do Not Try to Handle the Matter Yourself
If you do need to talk to a probate attorney, he or she may be able to simplify the probate process if the estate is smaller. Again, this type of undertaking can be drawn out and excruciating. Therefore, you need to speak to a legal specialist who knows all the details about probate and estate planning.
Where to Obtain More Estate Planning Information
Contact Debenham Law Office, LLC to obtain more information about estate planning and various specializations. These specializations may include funeral pre-arrangements, end-of-life-care, or designating a financial power of attorney. If you have not done so already, schedule an appointment to create a will and take care of other matters along these lines.
