Estate Lawyer

During probate, the deceased person’s estate legally owns the property. A court-appointed personal representative (executor or administrator) manages it under court supervision until debts are settled and heirs receive ownership. Understanding Property Ownership During Probate When someone dies, their assets—including real estate—enter a legal limbo until probate concludes. In South Carolina, probate ensures debts are…

Did you know that 1 in 3 South Carolinians will face probate court after a loved one’s passing? With its sprawling beaches, historic Charleston homes, and family farms in the Upstate, South Carolina’s unique assets require careful estate planning. But if you’re unsure which assets must go through probate—or how to avoid it—you’re not alone….

Yes, you can sell a house in Fort Worth during probate, but it requires court supervision unless the will grants the executor direct authority. According to Texas Estates Code § 356.451, executors may sell real estate if it’s in the estate’s best interest, such as covering debts or preventing property depreciation. If you’ve inherited a…

You’ve been waiting months for your inheritance, but the executor hasn’t filed a single probate document. Frustrating, right? You’re not alone. According to the American Bar Association, 30% of probate cases face delays due to executor inaction. Let’s unpack why executors drag their feet—and what you can legally do about it. What Does an Executor…

Picture this: Your late aunt’s estate has been stuck in probate for over a year, and the court keeps using the term “undisposed.” You’re left wondering, “What does this even mean, and why won’t the lawyers just explain it plainly?” You’re not alone. Over 60% of Americans die without a will, leaving estates vulnerable to…

Did you know that in some states, your final resting place could come with a tax bill? While death and taxes are both certainties, the rules around burial plot taxes are anything but straightforward. Let’s unravel the mystery and explore whether you need to worry about taxes on that grave plot—covering property taxes, sales taxes,…

Did you know that over 144,000 cemeteries exist in the U.S., yet countless graves remain mysteries to loved ones? Whether you’re tracing family roots or resolving a legal question, uncovering grave ownership is a puzzle—but you can solve it. This guide will walk you through every step, filling in the gaps left by other resources…

You paid thousands for a cemetery plot, but did you actually buy it? Spoiler: You likely “leased” burial rights that can vanish if heirs miss a single legal step. Discover what no cemetery will tell you—and how to lock down your legacy. What You’re Really Buying: Rights, Not Land Cemetery plots are interment rights, not…

You’ve inherited a cemetery plot—now what? While it might seem like a straightforward asset, the rules around burial plots and probate are full of surprises. Spoiler: Sometimes they skip probate entirely. Here’s how to the legal gray area. Cemetery Plots 101: Are They Part of Your Probate Estate? In most states, cemetery plots are considered…