A common misconception is that probate occurs only when someone did not have a will. However, even if the deceased had a will, probate is necessary for any property or accounts they held in their name.
First, we meet with the client and review the will (if applicable) and the assets of the deceased that are subject to probate.
Next, we file a petition with the probate court in the county where the deceased lived (or, if the deceased was from another state, the county in Oklahoma where they owned property).
Following a hearing, the probate court appoints an executor or personal representative who oversees administering the estate.
In Oklahoma, executors have several responsibilities. These include identifying and inventorying the real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings of the deceased, notifying creditors of the deceased, and distributing the estate to the heirs and beneficiaries.
How long the probate process lasts varies widely depending on the complexity of the estate, the presence of disputes among heirs, and the number of cases the probate court has on its docket. It is not uncommon for an Oklahoma probate to take 6 to 12 months to complete, even when all the parties agree
Contested probate proceedings occur when disputes or disagreements arise regarding the validity of the will, allegations of fraud or undue influence, distribution of the deceased’s assets or the executor’s conduct. In contested probate proceedings, attorneys must work closely with clients to understand their concerns, assess the strengths and weaknesses of the case, and develop a strategic approach to achieve their objectives.
For more than a decade, Tyler and his team have guided clients through the Oklahoma probate process with an approach that is both results-oriented and empathetic. Whether you have been named as the executor/personal representative in a deceased person’s will or are an heir to a family member’s estate, Barrett Legacy Estate Solutions can help. Get started, call (405) 928-4075 today.