Law Library Articles

Top 10 Estate Administration Articles in the LegalMatch Law Library

An estate is the sum total of what one person owns. “Estate administration” is an area of the law that concerns a person’s wishes to distribute his belongings upon his death. Wills and trusts are common legal instruments that aid with estate administration.

As a starting point for people looking to understand how estate administration works, the LegalMatch Law Library has compiled a list of the Top 10 Articles on Estate Administration.

1. How to Become an Executor of an Estate

Becoming the executor of an estate involves a specific legal process. This article explains the steps required to be appointed by the court. It covers what to do whether you were named in a will or not.

2. Life Estate Property Disputes

A life estate grants someone the right to use a property for their lifetime. Disputes can arise between the life tenant and the person who inherits the property afterward. This article explains these common conflicts and how they are handled.

3. What Is an Estate Bond?

An estate bond is a type of insurance policy that protects the estate’s assets. It ensures the executor performs their duties honestly and correctly. This article discusses when a court might require an executor to get one.

4. When Does a Power of Attorney Go Into Effect?

A power of attorney document is not always active immediately after it is signed. Some are effective right away, while others only activate upon a specific event. This article clarifies the different types and when they become legally binding.

5. What Protections Exist Against Bad Conservators?

A conservator is appointed to manage the affairs of someone who cannot do so themselves. There are safeguards in place to prevent a conservator from taking advantage of their position. Learn about the protections that exist for the individual’s well-being.

6. Executor Liability Lawyers

An executor can be held personally responsible for mistakes made during estate administration. An executor liability lawyer can defend against claims of mismanagement. This article explains the risks an executor faces and how a lawyer can help.

7. What Is an Executor?

An executor is the person in charge of carrying out the instructions in a will. Their main job is to manage the estate and distribute assets to the beneficiaries. This article provides a clear definition of this important role.

8. Financial Power of Attorney

A financial power of attorney grants someone the authority to manage your monetary affairs. You can give this person broad power or very limited duties. This article explains how this document works and why it is useful for planning.

9. Top 5 Types of Documents & Evidence to Gather for Your Estate Administration Case

Properly administering an estate requires a lot of paperwork. You will need to collect documents like the will, death certificate, and financial records. This article lists the key items you need to gather to begin the process.

10. Estate Executor

This article gives a broad overview of the estate executor role. It touches on their responsibilities and their legal duties to the beneficiaries. Understanding these obligations is key for anyone appointed to this position.