Probate options & considerations

• Author: Keith Branyon
• Pages: 49-62

PROBATE OPTIONS &

CONSIDERATIONS

2-1

CHAPTER 2

PROBATE OPTIONS &

CONSIDERATIONS

I. SELECTING THE APPROPRIATE PROCEEDING

A. Analyzing the Choices

§2:01 No Probate With Only Non-Testamentary Accounts

§2:02 Proceedings Must Begin Within Four Years

§2:03 Testate Decedent

§2:04 Intestate Decedent

§2:05 After Four Years

§2:06 Probate Timeline: Testate Death

§2:07 Probate Timeline: Intestate Death

B. The Types of Probate Administration

§2:10 Independent Administration

§2:11 Dependent Administration

§2:12 Muniment of Title

§2:13 Determination of Heirship

§2:14 Aff‌idavit of Heirship

§2:15 Administration of Community Property

§2:16 Small Estates

II. CREDITOR PROBLEMS/INSOLVENCY

§2:20 No Debts (or Only Debts Secured by Real Estate)

§2:21 Multiple Unsecured Debts or Insolvent Estate

§2:22 Questionable Liens

§2:23 Executor With Claims Against Estate or With Debt Owed to Estate

§2:24 Pending Litigation

III. FEUDING BENEFICIARIES

§2:30 Planning Expectations Do Not Always Work

§2:31 Choosing the Procedure

IV. DIFFICULT ASSETS

§2:40 Stocks Held in Certif‌icate Form

§2:41 Foreign Real Property

§2:42 Non-Testamentary Transfers

§2:43 Operating Decedent’s Business