- Analysis of the circumstances of death and the presence/absence of inheritance documents.
- Establishing the circle of potential heirs according to state laws.
- Assessment of the complexity of the case: the presence of property, debts, disputes.

Navigating Probate Without a Will
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1
Initial consultation and case analysis3 $217.80
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2
Preparation and submission of an application to the probate court30 $1,089.00
- Preparation of a petition to open probate proceedings without a will.
- Drawing up and submitting to the court an application for the appointment of an administrator.
- Collection and submission of the necessary supporting documents (death certificate, property documents, etc.).
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3
Notification of heirs and publication of the announcement20 $544.50
- Notification of all legal heirs and interested parties.
- Organization of publication in official sources in accordance with the requirements of the law.
- Legal registration of evidence of proper notification.
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4
Asset Identification and Inventory10 $1,331.00
- Compiling a detailed inventory of assets (real estate, bank accounts, transportation, valuables).
- Initiating an asset valuation (with the involvement of appraisers if necessary).
- Filing the inventory list with the court.
What happens when someone dies without a will?
When someone dies without a will, their estate is distributed according to the state’s intestate succession laws. In such cases, the court appoints an administrator who will be responsible for managing the estate and distributing it among the legal heirs.
Key points to know:
- Without a will, there is no indication of specific heirs or the deceased’s wishes.
- The estate is distributed according to fixed rules – priority goes to spouses, children, parents, siblings.
- The process can take longer because of the need to establish family ties and coordinate the positions of all parties.
- Contacting a lawyer who specializes in probate without a will can help avoid delays and legal errors in the process.
How to Start Intestacy Proceedings: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide
Starting intestacy probate requires strict adherence to several steps:
- Filing a petition to the court to appoint an administrator of the estate.
- Notifying heirs and interested parties about the start of the process.
- Inventorying assets (real estate, accounts, valuables).
- Valuation and repayment of debts, tax liabilities.
- Final distribution of property between legal heirs.
- A qualified probate attorney will help guide each of these steps,
- reducing legal risks and shortening the procedure.
Do I need a lawyer for inheritance if there is no will?
The answer is mostly yes. In cases where there is no will, there are more legal and emotional difficulties:
- It may be unclear who has the right to represent the interests of the deceased.
- Heirs may enter into conflicts due to the lack of clear instructions.
- Court procedures are complicated if there is property in several jurisdictions or debts.
An intestate probate lawyer performs a key function:
- Identifies and protects the interests of the client.
- Explains the rights and obligations of the administrator.
- Prepares a full package of documents for the court.
- Represents the client in all instances.
Having legal support is a guarantee that the inheritance process will be transparent, controlled and in accordance with the law.
How long does it take to register an intestate inheritance?
The intestate probate procedure usually lasts from 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case, the number of heirs, the presence of debts and assets. Without proper legal support, these terms may increase due to:
- Lack of consent between the parties.
- Insufficient or incorrect documents.
- The need to establish kinship through the court.
- The legal team of the “Consultant” platform accompanies the client at all stages — from collecting documents to the final court decision — reducing the time and reducing stress.
The process of passing probate without a will can be a challenge for any family. Without clear instructions from the deceased, resolving inheritance issues becomes more difficult. By contacting a reliable lawyer through “Consultant”, you will receive confident support, a clear explanation of the process and minimizing risks.

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