When everything goes well, the process of passing property from one generation to the next is a fairly smooth one. Given the money and emotional attachments at stake, though, there are naturally times when serious disputes can arise about how the property should be divided and who should get to take possession of it. The legal system has developed extensive and detailed rules that define the process so that everything is handled as smoothly as possible. It’s very helpful to get in touch with a lawyer who can help you to navigate Probate Law in Wichita.
Having a valid will for the deceased doesn’t mean that a family can skip the probate process. Part of the process, in fact, is dedicated to ensuring that the will is genuinely valid and to offer an opportunity for people to challenge it. The court will appoint an executor to carry out the instructions in the document if there is a will and it is found to be valid; otherwise, an administrator will be appointed. In the latter case, the administrator’s job is to assess the assets and debts of the estate and to divide everything up based on the default rules laid out in Kansas law.
When everyone in the family is getting along and the financial situation is very simple, it’s typically possible to go without a probate lawyer. If there are major assets at stake or there is any sign that someone might attempt to contest the will, it’s much better to get someone involved who is professionally trained in Probate Law in Wichita. Having an outsider involved at all can help to keep family members on their best behavior, and having a lawyer’s advice about what the law actually says can help to clarify and settle small disagreements before they have a chance to boil over.
Every family struggles after losing someone that they love. It’s not a time when people are at their best, either at resolving conflicts among themselves or navigating complicated legal matters. If you have any reservations about how the property of a loved one will be handled, contact Business Name for a consultation.
