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Losing a loved one is emotionally devastating, and taking care of the details following a death—such as planning a funeral, closing accounts, and notifying financial institutions—can be difficult to handle. If someone dies intestate—without a will—it makes it even harder to settle their estate. If you can’t find this crucial document, turn to the attorneys at Cecil & Cecil, PA, in High Point, NC. Their estate planning team will guide you through every step of the probate process.

3 Stages of Settling an Estate Without a Will

1. Establishing an Administrator

When someone dies without a will, the North Carolina General Statutes, enacted by the State Legislator, will provide a list of people eligible to act as administrator of the estate. This might include the deceased’s surviving spouse and adult children. If two or more relatives disagree about who should take on this role, the court will appoint a representative. That person then should call a probate attorney for guidance.

2. Settling Debt

Will High Point NCBefore beneficiaries can receive a share of the estate, the administrator must pay outstanding debts. This might include funeral expenses and unpaid hospital bills and debts. The court-appointed representative also must file the deceased’s final income tax return. 

3. Distributing the Remaining Property

State laws of succession determine the distribution of remaining property after the settlement of debts. In North Carolina, assets typically go to the surviving spouse and/or children. If the deceased is unmarried and childless but has living parents, assets would pass to them.

 

If you lost a loved one and can’t find a will, turn to a probate attorney from Cecil & Cecil, PA, in High Point, NC, for advice. They have over 65 years of combined experience and will help you achieve a satisfactory resolution to your case. Visit their website to learn about their estate planning experience and call (336) 883-8383 to schedule a consultation with an attorney. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for more legal tips from the firm.

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