Estates, Executors & Probate Court

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If you find yourself in charge of winding up a loved one's estate, you probably don't know where to start. Here are tips on tackling this demanding job, one step at a time. (Good news: you may never need to set foot in a probate court.)

Serving as an Executor learn more

What Does an Executor Do?
Settling an estate, in or out of probate court.
Should You Accept the Job of Executor to Settle an Estate?
Are you qualified to be an executor and do you want to do the job?
More Articles for Executors
Here you’ll find lots of information for executors, including what the job entails and how to get started.

The Probate Court Process learn more

How the Probate Process Works: Information for Executors
Learn the steps needed to complete the probate process.
Probate FAQ
What is probate, anyway? Here's an overview.
Probate in Your State
These articles give an overview of the process in specific states.

Simplified Probate Procedures

Probate Shortcuts in Your State
Every state offers some kind of shortcut for "small estates"--which, under some state's rules, can actually be quite large.
Small Estate Probate Shortcuts: Why Even Large Estates May Qualify
Depending on your state's law, your inheritors may be able to skip regular probate.
Nonprobate Property
Much valuable property doesn't go through probate--find out how to determine when you can skip probate altogether.

Executors Corner See the New Site

Check out Nolo's new site, Executors Corner.com. Published by our expert editors specifically for executors and trustees.
You'll find lots of information on estate management, probate, wills, trusts, and more - all written for the people entrusted to serve as executor or trustee.

What Does an Executor Do?
Learn about the role of the executor and their duties here.
Reading and Understanding the Will
When you're an executor, everything starts with the will.
Managing Property & Debts of the Estate
As executor, you're responsible for managing the assets and debts of the estate.
Dealing with Probate
Unless certain steps have been taken, executors will need to deal with probate. Here's how it works.
Estate, Inheritance and Income Taxes
The executor is responsible for paying taxes owed out of the estate.
Trusts & The Successor Trustee
Trusts have become a popular estate planning tool. Learn about trusts, and the role of the successor trustee here.

Questions on Executors & Probate

Helpful Books from Nolo

The Executor's Guide
A thorough guide to settling a loved one's estate, whether you're handling it alone or working with a lawyer.

How to Probate an Estate in California
Everything you need (including court forms) to take an estate, big or small, through California probate court.

The Trustee's Legal Companion
A must-have resource for anyone serving as a successor trustee.