Will your family go through the probate process after the death of a loved one? In probate, a person’s assets are valued and distributed to heirs, debts are settled, and property ownership rights passed to the intended beneficiaries.
In some cases, the probate process is smooth, if not time-consuming. Certain estates involve more complex factors, such as out-of-state property holdings, and it may take longer. Complex probate issues can be frustrating and overwhelming, and if you find yourself in this situation, you may benefit from an Oklahoma lawyer who can protect your rights and resolve these matters in a prompt manner.
When probate involves oil and gas properties
you inherited oil or gas property or mineral rights to property, probate will be a bit more complicated. It is critical to work with a lawyer who can protect your rights and ensure that you receive the royalties to which you are entitled. There are important questions that require answers, such as:
- Where is the oil or gas property located?
- Is the property in question directly addressed in the will?
- Does the oil and gas company currently hold royalty money in suspense?
If the property is located outside of the deceased’s home state, a process called ancillary probate will be necessary. The ancillary probate will take place in the state where the property is located. You need a lawyer licensed in that state who can help you navigate this process, even if you are not physically present.
Protect your interests in case of a probate dispute
probate process can be lengthy and complicated. Occasionally, there will be a dispute regarding your right to certain property or assets. Your lawyer will advocate for your rightful claim to the property, whether it is through negotiations or in trial.
Careful guidance is needed to ensure that your interests are protected and that your loved one’s wishes are honored. The death of a loved is a difficult time, and the legal matters that follow can exacerbate the difficulty of an already emotional time. When it comes to estate administration, probate, ancillary probate or mineral rights, experienced legal guidance is necessary to achieve your goals and arrive at reasonable resolutions to any disputes.