Top Billings, MT Probate Lawyers Near You
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2812 1st Avenue North, Ste 301, PO Box 1899, Billings, MT 59103-1899
401 North 31st Street, Suite 1500, Billings, MT 59101
100 N 27th St, Suite 550, Billings, MT 59101
3970 Avenue D, Suite B, Billings, MT 59102
27 North 27th St., Suite 1900, Billings, MT 59103
Suite 300, The Fratt Building, 2817 2nd Avenue North, Billings, MT 59101
490 North 31st Street, Suite 500, Billings, MT 59103
Billings Probate Information
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What Is Probate?
Probate is the process through which assets from a deceased person’s estate are transferred to beneficiaries, such as spouses, children, and other loved ones. In plain terms, reading a person’s will and distributing the items contained in it is part of the probate process. In some states, probate courts also handle matters related to guardianships and conservatorships of children or disabled adults.
What Happens if You Don’t Do Probate?
Without an estate plan in place, the probate process will often still go forward, but it can get messier. Someone who dies without a will in place will often have their assets given to any survivors, even if that would have gone against their wishes. Court battles can unfold among relatives who feel like they deserve more.
How Long Does Probate Take?
In a simple case where there are no disputes, and the deceased had a strong plan in place, the probate process of distributing assets and paying off debts may only take a few months to complete. If someone challenges the will or any other part of the estate distribution, it can take much longer.
How Can You Avoid Probate?
If you want your beneficiaries to avoid the hassle of probate, you have several options. You can make sure to name beneficiaries of bank accounts, retirement accounts, and life insurance policies. You could also move your assets to a living trust, which will allow you to access them while you are still alive but will automatically pass to your beneficiaries upon your death.