What documents will the attorney request to begin the probate process?
The attorney will need to have the original Will, and a certified copy of the death certificate. The attorney eventually will need a list of all assets belonging to the deceased, valued as of the date of death. This will include bank accounts, investments, IRA or other retirement accounts with the balance as of the date of death and insurance, no matter to whom it may be payable. It will include all real estate owned by the decedent, whether alone or jointly with another person. Information about the decedent’s debts (including credit cards, medical bills, mortgage and car loans, if any) is also important. The attorney will need these to determine if the estate is subject to estate tax.
