When a family member passes away, their estate must be settled. This means that all debts will need to be paid or addressed, and all personal, real and financial property will need to be directed to any heirs, individuals, or entities named in a will.
If someone dies without a will in place, their estate will need to be examined by a probate court. Probate judges assist in awarding various parts of a decedent’s estate to the proper parties. Even if a will is in place, a probate court may hear arguments if one party is contesting the execution of a will.
What Happens When More Than One Person is Named in a Will?
In many cases, a will document will include multiple people or entities to split an inheritance among. Sometimes, these cases are very clear in how things are to be split, but in others, they may be somewhat vague. Unfortunately, this can lead to disagreements and contention among family members who may feel that they are not receiving their fair share of an inheritance.
It’s often a good idea to try to work things out on your own with family if possible. Consider the value of the things included in a will. Are these things that are worth fighting over? Are they worth causing problems with loved ones over? After thinking things through, you may find that it’s better to make concessions rather than to allow strong emotions to dictate your behavior.
Work With a Local Estate Planning Attorney
If you aren’t able to work things out on your own with other parties to a will, you’re encouraged to work with a local estate planning attorney. For example, if you are dealing with an inheritance dispute in Long Island, New York, search for an elder estate planning attorney in Long Island who can help you to navigate the situation impartially. If you are looking for an elder estate planning attorney in Long Island, visit this website.
In this example, your elder estate planning attorney in Long Island will know New York’s laws pertaining to wills and property as well as probate. Your attorney can also serve as an independent third party who can remove a lot of the emotion from the situation in matters of inheritance disputes involving family members.
Author Resource:-
Mark writes often about estate planning. His articles may include topics like real estate closing attorney and business succession laws to help the people in needs. You can find his thoughts at estate planning law blog.