Is there an abbreviated version of the probate process for smaller estates?
In Missouri there are two forms of condensed probate proceedings set out as Letters of Refusal involving estates of $15,000 or less and Small Estates for estates of $40,000 or less. The time frame is usually less than 30 days for the Probate Division to issue the appropriate Orders once the required documentation has been submitted by the applicant. Most attorneys charge by the hour to handle these two types of probate proceedings. The state of Kansas has similar condensed probate proceedings available for handling small estates.
