Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Probate?
A: Probate is a court-supervised procedure for transferring ownership of someone’s assets after their death. It validates the person’s will and distributes property as directed by the will. If there is no will or other legal arrangement for transferring assets, the estate may still go through probate. The goal of probate is to protect the rights of heirs, beneficiaries, and others with an interest in the estate.
Q: Who Oversees the Probate Process?
A: The will typically names a personal representative responsible for overseeing probate. If the will does not specify a personal representative or if there is no will, the court appoints one. The personal representative’s primary duties include identifying and collecting assets, managing those assets during probate, determining the surviving spouse’s rights, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to the beneficiaries according to the will or local laws.
Q: What's the Difference Between Formal and Informal Administration?
A: Formal administration is overseen by a probate judge, while informal administration is supervised by the county’s register in probate. Formal administration is necessary when the will contains contested issues, which only a probate judge can resolve. Informal administration is generally faster and less expensive, allowing most processes to occur through mail or electronic filing.
Q: Should I Hire an Attorney for Probate?
A: While the personal representative is not required to hire an attorney for informal administration, it is advisable for legal guidance. In formal administration, an attorney is mandatory. Attorneys can provide valuable legal advice and represent the personal representative’s interests throughout the process.
Q: Which Assets Can Bypass Probate?
A: Assets solely owned by the deceased totaling less than $50,000 in value are exempt from probate. Jointly owned property automatically passes to the surviving owner, bypassing probate. Additionally, assets with named beneficiaries, such as life insurance payments and retirement plans, avoid probate. Proper estate planning can further reduce the need for probate.
Q: How Much Does Probate Cost?
A: Probate expenses include court costs, filing fees, probate bond costs (if applicable), personal representative and attorney fees. The estate funds these expenses. Court filing fees depend on the estate’s value, and attorney fees vary based on complexity and billing method. Attorneys cannot charge fees based on a percentage of the estate’s value.
Q: What Taxes Does Probate Involve?
A: Probate may entail state and federal income taxes on estate earnings from the date of the deceased’s death until the end of probate. Estate taxes may also apply, determined by the estate’s asset value. No estate taxes are levied on property passed to a U.S. citizen surviving spouse. The first $12,060,000 of assets are exempt from federal estate taxes, with this exemption indexed for inflation.
Q: How Long Does Probate Take?
A: Probate duration varies; a large or contested estate may extend for over two years, while a small, uncomplicated one might conclude in six months. Factors affecting duration include estate size, asset types, tax issues, creditor claims complexity, marital property issues, business involvement, and adherence to legal deadlines. State law mandates estate closure within 18 months, but some counties aim for 12 months.
Q: Can I Avoid Probate?
A: Certain estates and assets may avoid probate. Additionally, estate planning, joint ownership, or revocable living trusts can reduce probate necessity. However, even with such planning, probate may still apply to specific assets overlooked during the transfer process or assets payable to the estate after the owner’s death. The effectiveness of probate avoidance depends on individual circumstances.
Personalized Guidance is a Call Away
Probate is a complex legal process with various intricacies and potential challenges. To navigate this process efficiently and ensure that you fulfill all legal obligations and responsibilities, it’s advisable to seek professional legal assistance. Dahlberg Law Group has the expertise and experience to guide you through the probate process in Wisconsin. Our team can provide valuable legal advice, representation, and ensure that you meet all deadlines and requirements. Don’t hesitate to contact Dahlberg Law Group for expert assistance in handling probate matters and securing your loved one’s legacy.
What types of estate Planning cases do You handle?
Wills
Trusts
Power of Attorney
Marital Agreements
Probate
Locations
Appleton office
4650 W. Spencer Street, Suite 10
Appleton, WI 54914
Appleton, WI 54914
Jackson office
N168 W21367 Main Street
Jackson, WI 53037
Jackson, WI 53037
Wauwatosa office
933 N. Mayfair Road, #304
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Sheboygan office
615 S. 8th Street, Suite 240A
Sheboygan, WI 53081
Sheboygan, WI 53081
Hartford office
124 E. Sumner Street
P.O. Box 270468
Hartford, WI 53027-0468
P.O. Box 270468
Hartford, WI 53027-0468
West Bend office
120 N. Main St. Suite 260
West Bend, WI 53095
West Bend, WI 53095