Wills & Probate Basics

Insurance companies pay out life insurance policies directly to beneficiaries—usually without the need for probate, but there are a few exceptions. ... Read more

You can amend your existing will with a codicil, but you're probably better off making an entirely new will. ... Read more

Here are simple answers to commonly asked questions about wills and probate. ... Read more

Two witnesses must sign your will, and they must meet a few requirements. ... Read more

A valid will can be very simple or very complex, but you'll likely see the following provisions in a typical will. ... Read more

Learn how to save money by hiring the right lawyer, preparing for your first meeting, and making the most of your lawyer's time. ... Read more

Deciding who will get your property can be a complicated task. ... Read more

If you want to keep your retirement accounts out of probate, check your beneficiary designations. ... Read more

It's common to disinherit an estranged heir. Unless that heir is your spouse or child, you can usually simply exclude the heir from your will and he or she will receive nothing. ... Read more

If your spouse had children when you married, you might wonder about your step-children's rights in your will. Will they get part of your estate? How do you make sure they do, or don't? ... Read more

When hiring a probate attorney, do some research to find a lawyer that is right for you and your situation. ... Read more

When one co-owner dies, some forms of joint ownership allow the property to pass to the other co-owners without probate. ... Read more

Find out how adopting a child affects inheritance rights. ... Read more