Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Under Nebraska law, a personal representative—sometimes called an executor or administrator—must file certain records and accounts with the county court. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 30-24-17 requires the filing of an inventory within 30 days of appointment. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 30-24-31 mandates that an initial account be filed within one year of appointment, with annual accounts thereafter. Before discharge, the personal representative must also file a final account under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 30-24-119.
Anyone qualifying as an “interested party”—such as heirs, beneficiaries, or creditors—has a statutory right to review these documents. The court clerk generally makes probate files available for public inspection. You may also request a copy directly from the personal representative. Upon request, the personal representative should provide a copy without undue delay. If they fail to do so, you may petition the court to compel production under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 30-24-117, which authorizes the court to enforce compliance or impose sanctions.
Helpful Hints
- Identify yourself clearly as an interested party (beneficiary, heir, or creditor).
- Send a written request for the probate accounting to the personal representative and keep a copy.
- Check the county court’s online docket to see if the account has been filed.
- Note key deadlines: inventory within 30 days (§ 30-24-17); initial account within one year (§ 30-24-31).
- If the representative refuses to produce the accounting, file a motion to compel under § 30-24-117.
- Keep copies of all correspondence and court filings for your records.