Losing someone close to you can leave you with many questions; one of them could be about when you can settle their estate. In Virginia, probate can take different amounts of time depending on the estate and the issues involved. Knowing what can affect the timeline...
Probate
The first steps to begin the probate process
Losing someone close to you can leave you dealing with grief while also facing important decisions about their estate. If you live in Annandale and need to handle a loved one’s will, property or other assets, you may not know where to begin. Knowing where to file the...
Is it a bad idea to include a no-contest clause in a will?
A no-contest clause is not inherently bad. It can either be a bad or a good choice depending on your particular circumstances. You have to consider the pros and cons of adding it before making a decision. What is a no-contest clause? Most people include a no-contest...
How Virginia probate works when there is no will
Losing a loved one is a heavy burden, and that weight often grows when there is no will to guide the way. In Virginia, when someone dies without a legal plan, the state’s "intestate succession" laws take over. Heirs do not get to choose who receives property; instead,...
How does adoption affect inheritance in Virginia probate?
Adoption can change how inheritance works after a death. If your family includes an adopted child, you may wonder how Virginia probate law treats that relationship. The answer depends on legal parentage created by the adoption order, not biology. Adopted children and...
How can you reduce family probate disputes?
The loss of a loved one is hard enough without added tension among family members. Unfortunately, disagreements during probate can strain relationships and slow down the process of settling an estate. In Virginia, there are steps that can help reduce the chances of...
How does probate impact joint accounts?
When someone dies, the court usually puts their estate through probate. If you share a joint account with that person, you may wonder what happens next. Will you still have access to the account? Will the money get tied up in court? Here's how probate affects joint...
Who can serve as executor in probate proceedings?
When someone passes away, settling their estate often involves probate proceedings. An executor plays a crucial role in this process, as they manage and distribute the deceased's assets according to their will. But who can serve as an executor in probate proceedings,...
Are there benefits to choosing family as an estate executor?
Estate planning involves many important decisions. One of the most crucial is selecting an executor. This person will be responsible for carrying out the directions in your will, settling any debts and distributing your assets. But is choosing a family member as your...
Three tips to properly manage assets as an executor
If you become an estate executor for a deceased loved one, you will probably find that probate will be an emotional and stressful time for you. As part of your duties, you must oversee the property and assets of your relative. This may feel like an overwhelming task,...


