Probate FAQs

PROBATE FAQs What is Probate? Probate is the process in which heirs work with a court to appoint someone (personal representative) to handle administering an estate. The personal representative takes on the task of paying final expenses, debts, collecting assets, selling property and distributing the balance. The personal representative has the obligation to distribute the…

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Does an Estate Executor Get Paid?

Minnesota Probate Attorney Explains Compensation for a Personal Representative (Executor) You’re having dinner with your brother when he suddenly says. “I need to ask you a favor. Will you be the executor for me if I die.” Naturally, you respond with “Don’t be silly. You’re not going to die” to which he responds “Sis. I’m…

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What Is the Difference Between a Living Will and a Will?

If you looked into estate planning, as everyone should, you may have become quickly confused with the legal rhetoric of it all. Will, living will, trusts, health care surrogate, advance directives—it can all start blending. Today, we will help unravel some of these critical legal tools that play a central role in estate planning. In…

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Estate Planning Considerations for Those with Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s and their loved ones also face unique challenges in the future. It is a more common disease than some may think. The National Institute on Aging estimates that Alzheimer’s Disease impacts over 5.5 million Americans. The degenerative brain disease causes cognitive impairment that worsens over time. The nature of Alzheimer’s must be accounted for…

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Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Will

Estate planning puts important legal protections in place to secure a future you want for yourself and your family. A will is one of the most widely known types of estate planning documents. When it is properly utilized and drafted, a will can accomplish a variety of things beyond simply distributing your assets to your…

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Chris always responded quickly and thoughtfully

Chris provided my family with much-needed expertise and professionalism during the probate process after losing a loved one.  Her insight and wisdom was invaluable in making sure that everything went as smoothly as possible. Given that I was the personal representative for the estate, I knew that I could trust her to provide me with…

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Probate & Estate Administration

Probate is the legal process in which an estate determines two things: 1) who will be put in charge of estate administration (personal representative); and 2) how the assets should be administered. Both of which may be contested and lead to probate litigation. The probate court appoints an executor (personal representative) with the authority, obligation,…

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How Long Does Probate Take in Minnesota?

Probate is the process in which a deceased person’s assets are gathered, debts are paid, and assets are distributed to beneficiaries. Basically, it is the court-overseen process of wrapping up a person’s affairs. Probate can be a lengthy process. In fact, the time it takes for probate to complete is a major reason many people…

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7 Secrets to Drafting a Successful Will.

Writing a Will is something everybody should do.  With a Will, you can name a guardian for your minor children, decide who gets your assets, and appoint someone to sort out your estate.  A properly drafted Will should help maintain family harmony, negate confusion and minimize any time your family has to spend in court. …

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