Prepare the family and identity records
Collect the death certificate, identity and address records, marriage information and a clear family tree. Record the names and current addresses of possible heirs and note any earlier death, adoption, divorce or disputed relationship that may affect the estate.
Locate the will and execution evidence
Keep the original will safe and gather later codicils, registration details if any, witness information and relevant medical or correspondence records. Do not mark, staple or alter the original while a succession lawyer assesses it.
Create an asset and liability schedule
List property, bank and investment accounts, business interests, insurance, digital assets, loans, taxes and other liabilities. Match each item with ownership and nomination records; nomination and beneficial succession can raise different questions.
Confirm the document or proceeding actually required
Probate, letters of administration, a succession certificate, legal-heir documentation and mutation are not interchangeable. A probate lawyer can identify what the institution, asset and applicable law require before an application is prepared.
Address an inheritance dispute early
Preserve communications, possession records and information about any transfer or withdrawal. If capacity, coercion, forgery, exclusion of an heir or asset ownership is disputed, obtain advice before distributing or dealing with estate property.
Key takeaways
- Build an accurate family tree
- Protect the original will
- List assets and liabilities with evidence
- Identify the correct succession process
- Do not distribute disputed property prematurely
Official sources
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws, procedures and deadlines vary by location and circumstances. Sources and procedures should be checked for later updates.
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