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What is Probate Court in Oklahoma?
When a person passes away, the contents of his or her will are not automatically distributed to heirs. A legal process known as probate oversees the decedent’s assets, their value and property distribution to heirs. In Oklahoma, this procedure takes place in the district court of the county where the deceased lived. If a loved one has passed away, it is wise to hire a Tulsa, OK probate attorney to ensure the process runs smoothly.
Probate can be a lengthy process, depending on the complexity of the estate. A simple estate generally takes about six months to a year to complete. A larger estate, that requires the sale of property, can take several years. During probate, the following procedures and actions are completed:
- The identification and collection of the estate’s property and assets
- The protection of the deceased’s property
- The payment of outstanding debts and taxes
- The collection of all money owed to the estate
- The identification and location of all possible heirs
- The distribution of property to the heirs
- The legal transfer of real estate and record ownership property
Some assets transfer automatically to a beneficiary and do not need to go through probate court. Life insurance, pensions, trust property and joint tenancy property are considered non-probate assets. However, a probate lawyer in Tulsa may be needed to properly transfer these assets.
If you need a probate attorney, contact Winters & King, Inc. Our law firm helps grieving families through the confusing and complex probate process, protecting your loved one’s estate.