Before a deceased person’s assets can be distributed to their heirs, their will has to be validated and their estate’s debts must be settled. This happens during the probate process, and it can drag on for months. Georgia residents who wish to avoid probate often...
Probate is a process that validates a will and appoints an estate executor or administrator who settles estate debts and distributes assets to heirs and beneficiaries. Understanding the Georgia probate process makes it easier to create an effective estate plan....
Inheritance and estate taxes are things that few Georgia residents have to worry about. Georgia does not impose an estate tax, and most Georgia residents have estates worth less than the federal estate tax exemption, which is more than $12 million. This is fortunate...
In an ideal world, parents discuss inheritance issues with their adult children and address any concerns they may have. There may be misunderstandings about who gets what that the parents should resolve while there is still time. But life doesn't always run that...
When someone dies, the probate process begins. If the deceased person left a will, then the estate gets distributed according to the will's instructions. But, if the person died without a will, they died "intestate," and state intestacy laws determine how the estate...
When someone dies in Georgia, their estate has to be managed and distributed in a way that is consistent with their wishes as stated in their will. This complex process falls on the shoulders of the executor, who is usually appointed by the deceased ahead of time to...
At some point in life, it's essential to decide how your property will be distributed when you die. It's also a good idea to create a legal document stating your health care wishes if you become incapacitated. Talking with your children about these choices and...
Preparing your will or estate plan is a must in the state of Georgia. This will be the best way to make sure that your property and other assets are divided in the way you wish. However, there are plenty of circumstances under which a will may still have to go through...
Just like you would look over important documents like home loans carefully before you sign them, you should take that same approach when it comes to signing a will. There are some legal terms you should be familiar with, and it's best to have a clear idea of how you...
If you want your family members to know how to handle your estate and financial affairs when you pass away, you should create a will. Some people even use their wills as a way to express their heartfelt sentiments to their relatives. If your will is well-written and...
