Probate: How do you start the process?

[GoingDown]

A relative recently died from a heat stroke. He was 27, unmarried, and had no children. He was young, so he never bothered to even make a will. He had about $400,000 in assets when he died suddenly on Saturday after going on a hike in the Phoenix desert mountains. His father wants to know how to start the probate process and how to become "executor" of his son's estate. He would prefer to do it all himself and not get a lawyer to avoid their fees. I have no idea about this stuff, so I thought I would ask all of you on here for some advice.

[cleo1357]

Talk to your local Clerk of Court. I know here in FL, they have the paperwork there to begin the process.

[AngelinaCatHub]

OH MAN. What a shame. However you won't in our County get legal advice. The closest next of kin I think by law would be the executer and possibly the recipient of the estate. For that much money, I sure would get a lawyer as there may be taxes involved. You sure are not on a legal forum here. This is a support group forum with only tales to tell of good and bad, and other things, but my advice is get the lawyer for sure. (Pay me now, or pay me when your in trouble) rings in my ears. 'Hub

[rfassett]

I agree with Hub. First of all, please accept my condolences. Secondly, with $400,000 in assets, tell the father to do the right thing and hire professional help. He will sleep much better.

And there is a lesson to be learned here. Age has nothing to do with putting together a will. The next breath is not promised to any of us. If you have any assets at all that you want to direct, or more especially children that you care to appoint a guardian, put it in writing and save your relatives a lot of unnecessary additional grief.

[Flamingo]

I am sorry to hear of your family's loss. As to needed details per your posting, the undertaker handing burial arrangements will take care of some necessary documents that will be needed (Death Certificate) and will ask certain questions about the deceased's estate to find out about life insurance, etc.. Depending upon where the deceased resided, contact the Register of Wills office (or similar wording - depending upon state) for that county/state and speak with someone there, advising the deceased did not have a will, no wife, no children. Each state has various requirements as to size of estate, no will, etc., etc. You will be instructed as to bringing in a death certificate and other necessary documentation.