Frequently asked questions about probate court

On Behalf of | Jun 27, 2022 | Probate

People sometimes have to go through probate court in Indiana to settle a deceased person’s estate. Before the probate process begins, it’s understandable to have a few questions. Getting answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about probate court can make this process less confusing. Here are answers to some of them.

Does every death require a probate hearing?

It’s important to note that each state has its own probate court requirements. For instance, Indiana is a state where not every estate must go through probate court. With that said, most estates go through the probate process. Exceptions only happen if the deceased person had no assets and beneficiaries.

What happens in probate court?

Before the probate process begins, a judge typically states the responsibilities of a will’s executor. These duties can vary but most often include settling debts with creditors, contacting beneficiaries, and other tasks. As probate continues, typically after a second hearing, the judge closes out the estate after making sure all duties get carried out.

How long does the probate process take?

Understandably, many people wonder how long the probate process lasts. Unfortunately, there’s no way to know how long it will take to settle someone’s estate. On average, it takes nine months to complete probate. However, the exact duration of this process varies based on the complexity of a deceased person’s will and the size of their estate.

In closing, probate is often necessary to properly settle someone’s estate. While it isn’t the quickest process, going through probate court is a smart way to take care of a deceased person’s estate without leaving behind any questions or concerns.