What Outcome Can Someone Expect Upon Completion of Probate?
The probate process seeks to determine the validity of a decedent’s will. This process can be a lengthy one. However, what outcome can someone expect upon the completion of probate? This largely depends on how many disputes occurred during the process, how many assets are included in the estate, how many delays happened, and more. It is important to understand what happens after the probate process concludes. This way you will know what outcome someone can expect upon completion of probate.

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Questions And Answers
The outcome someone can expect upon the completion of probate depends on the estate and the wishes of the decedent. Moreover, if everything runs smoothly, then the outcome would be that the assets and property of the will are distributed accordingly without issue.
The probate process ends once the court has authenticated the will of the decedent. Additionally, all debts must be paid, fees must be paid, and all assets must be located and valued.
The purpose of the probate process is to prove that the will of the decedent is valid thereby allowing the assets and property of the deceased to be distributed to the proper beneficiaries.
Yes, there can be delays to the completion of probate. Many things can happen during the probate process that can delay its completion. Various disputes may arise, missing property may be discovered, and more.
Yes, the tax returns of the decedent can delay the completion of probate. The estate is responsible for paying the taxes and debts of the decedent. If these debts are not paid then the assets cannot be distributed. Therefore, this would delay the closing of the probate process.
Yes, difficulty appraising and selling assets can delay the completion of the probate process. Some items are very difficult to value or sell. Moreover, for a will to be distributed, all assets must be found and appraised.
The executor closes the estate upon the completion of probate.
Once probate is completed, and the executor determines all steps have been satisfied, then the executor would “close the estate.”
Assets and property are distributed by the executor of the will upon the completion of probate. They would follow the wishes of the will and distribute the assets and property accordingly.
The assets are distributed to the inheritors (beneficiaries) named specifically in the will. This is an outcome someone can expect upon completion of probate.
If the estate is intestate, then the will would fall under state law and be distributed to the next nearest family members of the deceased.
No, this is a common misconception about intestate estates. The intestate estate would only be turned over to the state if there are no living family members remaining for the decedent.
Once probate is completed, it is still possible that assets are discovered. Oftentimes, there are assets of the deceased that no one knew existed or that were found after the fact. The executor, upon discovering these assets, should contact the probate court which they worked with during the probate process. There may be provisions that deal with the acquisition of new assets. It may be difficult if the probate is completely closed.
Yes, after the completion of probate, there can still be disputes. These disputes are usually about how the executor fulfilled their duties. Moreover, these disputes are usually filed by the beneficiaries and/or creditors.
Once the probate process comes to an end, it is the duty of the executor to distribute the assets and property to the beneficiaries, to assure all debts and facets of the process are completed, and to close the estate. Furthermore, it is the duty of the executor to bring forth any further assets acquired after the close of probate.
Yes, beneficiaries and creditors can file claims against the executor after probate concludes. It is possible that the beneficiaries or creditors believe that the executor did not execute their duties properly. Additionally, they may file claims against the executor’s estate.
Yes, beneficiaries and creditors can claim fraud against an executor after the completion of probate.
Upon the completion of probate, the estate is closed by the executor. From the time they close the estate, beneficiaries and creditors have up to a year to file any claims against the executor that they deem fit. At the conclusion of the year, the estate will officially close, and the executor’s role is essentially over.
When an estate closes after probate, it is finished with the distribution of assets and property. However, if new assets are discovered, the executor must contact the probate court, which could get complicated with a closed estate.
Yes, hiring an attorney can help with the outcome one can expect from probate. If you want the best possible outcome, then hiring a probate attorney is worth is the investment because they have extensive knowledge of the probate process. They will be able to guide your process and help avoid challenges and mistakes that can happen along the way.