In Dupont, Washington "probate" refers to the process a court uses to decide whether or not a will is valid, thereby deciding if it should be given effect.

During probate, the court in Dupont, Washington will determine the validity of the will, identify and inventory the decedent's assets, account for the decedent's debts and back taxes, and distribute the decedent's property, among other things.

Wills usually name the person who is to serve as executor of the estate. If no executor is named, the Dupont, Washington court will appoint an executor. This is usually the person who stands to gain the most if the will is found to be valid.

The executor is the person responsible for initiating the probate proceedings. The person who would inherit the most from the will is appointed, because they have the greatest incitement to move the process along as quickly as possible, so they can get their inheritance.

Duties of the Executor in Dupont, Washington

The executor has many duties concerning the will. First, they have to actually initiate the probate proceedings, which must be completed before the will is effectuated.

They also are required to provide notice to the people with a direct interest in the estate that the decedent has died, usually by filing a death certificate.

The executor will also have to compile and make available a list of all of the decedent's debts and assets, as well as a list of those who stand to inherit from the decedent.

As the representative of the estate, the executor has to take charge of the probate process, filing the necessary court papers, and, if necessary, hiring an attorney for assistance. If the estate is large, and the executor stands to inherit a great deal of money once this process is complete, they'll probably find it to be worth the time and expense.

How Can A Dupont, Washington Lawyer Help?

Because of the complexities inherent in the probate process, it is a good idea to hire an experienced Dupont, Washington probate lawyer, particularly for the executors of estates.