If you leave someone an inheritance using your will, it is a relatively straightforward transfer. You may choose to leave a certain beneficiary $100,000. The estate executor helps guide the process of taking the estate through probate and distributing the inheritance...
Estate Planning
How an estate plan protects adults who may need Medicaid later
To many people, estate planning is synonymous with drafting a will and thinking about their funeral preferences. However, people considering their legacies also often take steps to address their likely future needs in their golden years. Many adults first create their...
Can you disinherit a child in your will under North Carolina law?
A lifetime of work, a legacy to protect. When planning your estate, the hardest decisions often involve those closest to you. If you are considering disinheriting a child, know that you have the right to leave your property as you choose. Understanding the statutory...
What is a probate bond and when does North Carolina require one?
Probate often brings unfamiliar terms, and a probate bond ranks high on that list. If you serve as an executor or administrator in North Carolina, the court may require a bond before you can manage estate property. Knowing when a bond applies and how it works helps...
How do special needs trusts work under North Carolina law?
If you support a loved one with a disability, you may worry about how financial help could affect public benefits. North Carolina law allows special needs trusts to manage assets while preserving eligibility for certain assistance programs. Understanding how these...
How are minor children protected under NC probate laws?
When a parent dies, probate rules step in to protect minor children. You may wonder how the law looks after their financial needs and long-term interests. North Carolina has clear guidelines that shape how a child's property and support move forward. Understanding how...
What should you include in an estate plan?
Creating an estate plan in North Carolina helps you protect your property, support your loved ones, and make sure your wishes are respected. A good plan goes beyond a simple will. It includes key documents and decisions that prepare for both life and death events....
What happens when a beneficiary is unlocatable during probate?
When someone passes away and their estate goes through probate, the process depends on identifying and contacting every beneficiary. But what if one of those beneficiaries disappears? This situation can delay the settlement of an estate and create tension among other...
How is real estate handled during the probate process?
When someone passes away, their property often becomes part of the probate process. Real estate can be one of the most complicated assets to manage because multiple people may have rights to it. Understanding what happens to real estate during probate helps families...
What are the legal steps to take after the death of a loved one?
Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, and handling legal matters during this difficult time may feel stressful. In North Carolina, family members must follow certain legal steps after a person’s death to ensure that the estate is properly managed and...
