Contact Our Minnesota Probate Lawyers Today | Minnesota Probate Process

The time immediately following the death of a loved one is difficult. In addition to the normal grieving process, there are other logistical issues that need to be dealt with, including commencing the Minnesota probate process.

Most people are intimidated by any court proceeding and find themselves asking what happens in probate court. The initial probate hearing is a straightforward process. Understanding what to expect from the first probate hearing can help relieve stress associated with the probate process and allow litigants to focus on the other, more important issues associated with saying goodbye to a loved friend or family member.

The Probate Court Process

Once a petition to probate an estate is filed, the court will issue an order setting a probate hearing. Any interested party will receive notice of the hearing.

“Interested parties” include:

• The personal representative
• Any heirs of the deceased
• All creditors
• Anyone specifically named in the will

Accordingly, any of these people or the representatives may choose to appear at the probate hearing.

The Probate Hearing Process: What Happens in Probate Court?

Here’s what happens at a probate court hearing. First, the court takes some basic testimony from the proposed personal representative. This testimony typically centers around the information contained in the initial petition that was filed requesting that the will be probated.

Any additional information that will aid the court in making the decision on whether it should approve the estate may also be taken, including:

• The identity of the deceased
• The relationship between the deceased and the proposed personal representative
• The reason the estate needs to be probated

After the judge decides to permit the petition to probate the estate, the court will enter an order that appoints the personal representative to actually administer the estate.

The court will then issue Letters Testamentary. These will allow the personal representative to carry out his or her duties in probating the estate. The personal representative should obtain a certified copy of the Letters Testamentary so that he or she can demonstrate the necessary legal authority to handle the estate.

It is important to note that many courts have specific local rules concerning probate hearings. These rules often discuss issues such as when and how a probate hearing will be held. Regardless of local rules, however, the basic reason and content of the initial probate hearing remains the same.

Need a Probate Lawyer for a Court Hearing? Contact Johnson/Turner Legal Today

The court process can be complicated and if you are trying to probate the will of a loved one, you need an experienced attorney to help you navigate it. We have extensive experienced helping clients with these issues.

Contact us online today or by at (320) 299-4249 and let us answer your questions about probate!