Top Columbia Falls, MT Probate Lawyers Near You
1830 3rd Ave E, Suite 302, Kalispell, MT 59901
221 1st Avenue East, PO Box 3038, Kalispell, MT 59903
1667 Whitefish Stage, Kalispell, MT 59903
We found a limited number of Probate law firms in Columbia Falls. Below are some of the closest additional firms.
2300 Regent St, Suite 207, Missoula, MT 59801
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407 Main St. SW, Suite 1, Ronan, MT 59864
2620 Radio Way, PO Box 17255, Missoula, MT 59808
2687 Palmer St.,, Suite D, Missoula, MT 59808
327 W Pine St, Missoula, MT 59807
305 S 4th St E. Suite 100, PO Box 7099, Missoula, MT 59807
310 West Spruce, PO Box 8479, Missoula, MT 59807
125 Bank St., Ste. 600, Missoula, MT 59802
1800 S. Russell St, 2nd Floor, Missoula, MT 59802
620 High Park Way, PO Box 4947, Missoula, MT 59806
2800 South Reserve Street, Suite 300, Missoula, MT 59801
2315 McDonald Ave, Ste 200, Missoula, MT 59801
Columbia Falls 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.