A will is one of the most common estate planning tools, giving the testator the power to decide how their administrator will distribute their properties when they die. Since it is a legal document, many may wonder whether a will’s notarization is necessary for it to...
Year: 2023
What should I look for when choosing an executor for my estate?
An executor is the person you appoint in your will to manage your estate when you die. They will handle the estate administration process, including dealing with the probate court. They will settle your outstanding debts, identify and gather your assets, and...
What tax-related duties does the personal representative have?
When an estate enters probate, the court might appoint someone as the personal representative. This person represents the deceased's estate and carries out essential tasks through probate. This role typically goes to a family member or another entity based on state...
Know the importance of testamentary capacity when writing a will
There are basic requirements when writing a will in Georgia. One part is testamentary capacity. This might sound confusing to those who are unaware of the intricate details of estate planning, but it is imperative. From the start, it is useful to have guidance with...
Three signs that the fiduciary duty has been breached
The estate administration process can be more complicated than it seems. While the estate’s assets will have to be inventoried, creditors will have to be notified, and outstanding bills will have to be paid, the executor will also have to figure out asset distribution...
Contesting a will in Georgia
Most Georgians believe that signing a valid will is tantamount to eliminating all disputes regarding the distribution of the maker’s assets. While this is mostly the case, a few wills can lead to more, not less, controversy among a person’s heirs about the...
What happens if I die without a will in Georgia?
If you are a resident of Georgia and you pass away without a valid will, you may leave your loved ones with a lot of uncertainty and confusion. State law will decide how your property and assets will be distributed among your surviving relatives, regardless of your...
Importance of understanding zoning and land use before land purchases
There are many reasons why companies in Georgia decide to purchase commercial real estate. They could be starting their business or outgrew their current space. Owning commercial real estate can be a way to have the perfect space for their operations but can also be...
What should be included in your will?
A will is an estate planning tool used to distribute assets after the will creator, or testator passes away. The contents of your will may depend on your specific circumstances, but here are a few things that should be included. Personal information It is important...
How can families dealing with loss handle Georgia probate?
Probate is the legal procedure that determines the validity of a will. Probate can be time-consuming, costly and complicated, especially if there are disputes among the family members or creditors. However, there are some steps that families can take to handle Georgia...