What steps are required to locate, inventory, and distribute estate assets and settle debts in Colorado?
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer When an individual dies in Colorado, the personal representative follows a structured process under the Uniform Probate Code (Title 15, C.R.S.) to locate assets, inventory them, notify creditors, settle debts, and distribute the remaining property. Below you’ll find the […]
Read article →How do intestacy rules apply if no valid will is found in Colorado?
Detailed Answer When someone dies without a valid will in Colorado, their estate passes under Colorado’s intestate succession laws. The probate court appoints a personal representative to collect assets, pay debts, and distribute the balance. These rules appear in the Colorado Revised Statutes sections 15-11-101 through 15-11-120. Appointment of Personal Representative Under C.R.S. § 15-12-201, […]
Read article →Which Court or County Office Handles Estate Administration and Unclaimed Property Claims in Colorado?
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney to address your specific situation. Detailed Answer In Colorado, two separate offices handle estate administration (probate) and unclaimed property claims: 1. Estate Administration (Probate) When someone dies, their assets must pass through probate unless they held property […]
Read article →What steps are required to open an estate proceeding in Colorado when no probate case exists?
Detailed Answer When a decedent dies without any existing probate case in Colorado, a surviving family member or interested person must open a new estate proceeding to appoint someone to administer the estate. You start by determining whether formal probate is required or if you qualify for a simplified (small estate) administration. 1. Determine Whether […]
Read article →How to Determine if a Probate Estate Has Been Opened for a Decedent in Colorado
Detailed Answer Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. When a person dies, their estate may enter probate—a court-supervised process for distributing assets and paying debts. To determine whether a probate estate has been opened for a decedent […]
Read article →What documentation is required to apply for letters of administration in Colorado?
Detailed Answer Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney before taking legal action. In Colorado, you obtain letters of administration by petitioning the probate court to appoint a personal representative when someone dies without a will (intestate). Colorado’s Probate Code (Title 15, Article 12) governs […]
Read article →What steps are needed to include real property into an estate in Colorado?
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer When a person dies owning real property in Colorado, that property often must pass through probate to become part of the decedent’s estate. Below are the key steps […]
Read article →What Steps Are Required to Transfer an Out-of-State Property Interest When All Heirs Agree in Colorado
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer When a Colorado resident owns real property in another state, heirs often wonder how to clear title without formal ancillary probate in the other jurisdiction. Under Colorado law, your primary probate administration can authorize the transfer of out-of-state real […]
Read article →How Can Service of Process Be Handled for Minors or Individuals Under Guardianship in Colorado?
Detailed Answer In Colorado, serving legal papers (service of process) to a minor or someone under guardianship follows special rules. These rules ensure the individual’s guardian or legal representative receives the notice. Below is an overview: 1. Service on Minors Under Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 4(e)(3), when the defendant is a minor (under […]
Read article →How to Obtain and Use a Court-Ordered Subpoena to Gather Estate Records in Colorado
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer 1. What Is a Subpoena in Probate Proceedings? A subpoena is a written court order that compels a person or entity to: Appear and testify (subpoena ad testificandum), or […]
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