When a loved one passes away, sorting through their estate can be a complex process. Intellectual property (IP) rights, such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks, can add another layer of difficulty. These rights, which can be quite valuable, are something your...
Probate
What are the most common reasons families contest a will?
The Kentucky probate courts often help interpret the law and enforce estate planning documents. However, sometimes the probate courts have to do the exact opposite. They may need to set aside or invalidate estate planning paperwork because of issues with the...
Navigating the probate process for personal items
Probate is a legal process that happens after someone dies. It involves distributing the deceased person's assets to their heirs and paying off any debts. Understanding what happens to personal items during probate in Kentucky is important to help ensure the process...
Does Kentucky allow transfer on death deeds?
The state of Kentucky does not recognize the transfer-on-death deed, also known as a beneficiary deed. Therefore, property owners in Kentucky do not have the option to use TOD deeds to transfer their property to designated beneficiaries upon their death. Unless people...
How to navigate probate as an executor
Probate is a daunting process, especially for those who serve as executors of an estate. If your loved one chose you as executor, you may find that the process requires extensive planning and organization. To fulfill your duties, you need to have a clear understanding...
4 signs of estate plan executor misconduct
After diligently crafting your estate plan, choosing someone to carry out your wishes as an executor is a significant decision. An executor holds a position of trust and responsibility, tasked with managing your estate after your death. However, sometimes executors...
3 elements often necessary to establish undue influence in court
The undue influence of an outside party is one of the scenarios in which someone could challenge or contest a will or other testamentary documents. Undue influence involves someone other than the testator or decedent having a degree of control over the testator's...
Probate process when siblings inherit a house
When a loved one dies and leaves behind a house, it can be a complex and emotional process for siblings to navigate. Understanding the probate process is crucial in ensuring a smooth transition of property ownership. Initiating probate The probate process begins with...
How can probate be beneficial?
Many people view probate with hesitation. You may hear people advise on how to avoid probate, but should you avoid it at all costs? Probate is a beneficial process in estate administration and can positively affect families and loved ones. The advantages associated...
Will Kentucky probate courts uphold a no-contest clause?
Probate is necessary for many estates in Kentucky. The courts will often oversee the distribution of someone's assets if they die without a will or have particularly valuable personal property in their estate. However, estates generally only require probate litigation...