Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Bob Carlson researches all facets of retirement finances. About 70% of U.S. adults don’t have a will or trust, according to ...

We constantly hear from advisors that we should plan our affairs in such a way as to avoid probate. What does the phrase mean and what property is subject to the probate process? What planning is ...

Jehan Crump-Gibson is an accomplished attorney and founder of her own law firm, Greal Lakes Legal Group, PLLC, specializing in business, real estate, and probate law. With over 16 years of experience, ...

Probate eats up lots of time and money, but there are ways to avoid it. Here are 7 expert tips.

One of the biggest mistakes people make with estate planning is to assume that estate planning means getting a document. Whether it is a will, a revocable trust, living trust, or any other document, a ...

When someone dies, even seemingly simple assets like bank accounts can become complicated fast. Whether those funds can get ...

This process begins with filing a petition in the county court where the deceased resided. The court receives the death certificate then validates the will, if one exists. Next, the court appoints a ...

Inheritance Funding reports that probate delays can be minimized by personal representatives through clear communication, timely document handling, and organized estate management.

When you die, estate planners say, one of the finest gifts you can leave your heirs is a plan for avoiding probate. Probate is a legal process that distributes a dead person’s assets and settles their ...