Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult an attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Detailed Answer
Under Nevada law, all probate proceedings are public record. You can verify whether a probate estate has opened by examining court records. Follow these steps:
- Identify the Court: Probate matters fall under the district court in the decedent’s county of domicile. See NRS 2.050(2).
- Gather Case Details: Note the decedent’s full legal name and last county of residence. Include any known aliases or spelling variations.
- Search Online Records: Many counties offer electronic case search portals. For example, Clark County provides the Clark County Eflex system. Enter the decedent’s name to see pending or closed probate cases.
- Contact the Clerk’s Office: If the county lacks an online portal, call or visit the district court clerk’s office to request a search. Courts must keep probate filings on record per NRS 132.180.
- Review Filings: Look for a petition for probate, letters testamentary, or letters of administration. The issuance of these letters indicates an estate has opened. See NRS 132.200.
- Check for Informal Proceedings: Nevada allows informal probate under NRS Chapter 146. Such filings also appear in the court docket.
Helpful Hints
- Use the exact legal spelling of the decedent’s name for accurate search results.
- Check local legal newspapers for published probate notices.
- Ask the court clerk about any associated filing fees or required forms.
- Request copies of docket sheets to track the case status over time.
- If you find no record, verify the county of domicile or consider that the estate might qualify for small estate procedures under NRS 146.080.