Probate is usually required when there's no will, the will needs validating or there are no named beneficiaries. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners ...

Losing a loved one is never easy — and if you’ve been named executor of their will, you’re also stepping into a big responsibility. On top of your grief, you’re now in charge of managing their estate, ...

Q. My wife and I are wondering about the pros and cons of naming an estate planning lawyer versus a family friend or distant relative to serve as executor after we have both passed away. We have no ...

What qualities might you consider when choosing an executor for your estate? Are there certain skills and characteristics he or she should have? What follows are some tips about picking someone to ...

Brendan is a freelance writer and content creator from Portland, OR. He covers tech and gaming for Lifehacker, and has also written for Digital Trends, EGM, Business Insider, IGN, and more. August 26, ...

Estate planning can be difficult. In addition to the fact that it may bring up some uncomfortable feelings – like grappling with one’s mortality – there is also the fact that it can be a complex legal ...

Quick Read Probate attorney fees are calculated as a percentage of estate value. Some estates lose over $100,000 to court ...

An executor is the person whom you name to handle the settlement of your estate after you die, taking your estate through probate, a court-supervised process that winds up your affairs in the state ...

Dear Mr. Premack: A few months ago, my cousin died, and his will named me as the executor. I did some reading online and went to the library to investigate probate, and want to go to court without ...

New Jersey is considered a "probate friendly" state since the executors are not required to obtain court approvals for most actions. However, if the executor is not complying with state law, in N.J.