Stratford, CT asked in Estate Planning and Probate for Connecticut

Q: My father passed away and didn't have a will.. How can I become executor of his estate so i can close out his account's?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Amanda Gilbert-Largent
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Amanda Gilbert-Largent
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • North Haven, CT
  • Licensed in Connecticut

A: From the brief facts described, you will need to file an application with the probate court in the state of domicile. There are a few different forms that may need to be filed depending on your circumstances and how the assets were titled. Some assets may have a beneficiary already listed, or may be jointly held. In those cases you need to file forms with the institution. Dying without a will means that his assets will pass via intestacy. That means that depending on what relatives are alive, different people will inherit.

Keep in mind that there are timing issues where certain filings are required in a certain amount of time after death. The process can be confusing and take quite a bit of time. Most probate attorneys will offer a free consultation to evaluate your situation and let you know if they believe you will need an attorney or if you can handle it on your own. If you contact the Probate Court they are usually helpful to individuals filing themselves.

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