What to Expect Next…
Probate coordination can be a lengthy and time consuming process. To avoid delays, please carefully read the following information.
Please complete the Family Tree Questionnaire as soon as possible (The process should take about 10 minutes).
Following a review of your Family Tree Questionnaire responses, your matter will be coordinated by The Probate Pro to a probate attorney in your state to begin the probate legal services.
Failure to do so will cause delays in the probate coordination process.
The Probate Pro is providing probate coordination only. Please contact your mass tort law firm directly for any questions regarding the status of the lawsuit, lawsuit settlement values, the status of your particular claim, or timeline for the distribution of funds.
If you would like to speak to us, call (833) PROBATE.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Probate?
The process of administering a deceased person’s affairs.
Why do I need to open a probate file?
When someone dies and there is a lawsuit, in most states a person must get appointed by the probate court to have legal standing to pursue the lawsuit.
“The decedent didn’t own anything. There is no estate.” Why do I need to open a probate estate?
Even if they didn’t own any assets, when someone dies and there is a lawsuit, in most states a person must get appointed by the probate court to have legal standing to pursue the lawsuit.
“The decedent had a Will.” Why do I need to open a probate estate?
When someone dies and there is a lawsuit, in most states a person must get appointed by the probate court to have legal standing to pursue the lawsuit. The Will nominates in the probate proceeding who may serve as the personal representative.
“The decedent had a Trust. That should avoid probate.” Why do I need to open a probate estate?
When someone dies and there is a lawsuit, in most states a person must get appointed by the probate court to have legal standing to pursue the lawsuit. Generally, a Trustee does not have legal standing to file a lawsuit.
What is a Personal Representative?
A person who is appointed by a probate court to administer and represent a decedent’s probate estate.
What is a Letter of Administration (or Letter of Authority)?
A document issued by the probate court that evidences the powers of the personal representative.
Why must I provide family information, including names and addresses, for probate?
The family information is required to provide statutory notice to the heirs of the decedent. The failure to timely provide all of the information will cause delays in your process.
Who will receive the settlement proceeds?
The settlement proceeds will be distributed pursuant to court order and/or the state statute. Your local probate attorney will answer questions regarding your particular probate administration, including the process of distribution of settlement proceeds.
Who is The Probate Pro?
The Probate Pro is a national, probate law firm. If necessary, The Probate Pro will coordinate the retention of probate counsel in your area. There will be no upfront cost to you and no fee will be paid unless there is a successful recovery. The cost of this service and that of a local probate attorney will be an expense paid from the settlement proceeds.
The Probate Pro is also available to assist if you have already started this process on your own but need assistance now with completing additional requirements of the probate court.