Has anyone on here gone through probate and have any tips?
 

Wondering if there are any shortcuts or money saving routes I could take that wouldn't involve a lawyer.

Every state is different be careful of blanket advise. My parents estate for instance required a full year escrow of funds not associated with maintaining the estate before disbursements of assets.

I think if there is any value or liability to the estate you know the answer.

i like poobate...

Lots of online guides but the gist is sell everything put the money in one account. Pay the final bills, taxes and disburse.

Thanks for the info everyone. I've found a few places offering $50 consults. I'm just not sure if that's just for talking to me or if they also fill out an submit forms. The lady at the Clerk of Court office told me it would cost around 3% of the assets which is something that bothers me.

3% only matters if the estate has significant value. If it is a $10,000 estate it would be less than 1 hour at a great lawyer

This is why people set up revocable living trusts -- to avoid the headaches for their family when they die -- no probate is necessary ...

There Today
 

Was in probate today over my mom's house. Kept her car out. Lawyer had about 6 forms that he had my son, as executor sign. Since he lives out of state I had to be the resident agent. Cost about $1000. But it was worth it. We have a buyer so we wanted to make sure the process was fast and correct.

The judge was sick so they decided to call a different judge. Turns out I've been in her court multiple times on a lawsuit I'm involved in.

My son had to open a special account and get an EIN. We don't get the money for 6 months. The car not being in probate was fast, except mom had lost the title. The DMV had a form for that as I was sole heir, although we're splitting the value of the car.

It's going to cost me about $3100 to get the house and car in my name.

Attorney
 

The house definitely will take a lawyer. Since I already have a house with a mortgage the mortgage company has added mom's house. The lawyer is trying to get it released so I can sell it. What a pain in the ass.

Unless it is a pos and a shitty house in Detroit, why are you complaining?

$3,100 is a bargain.