How can an administrator in Rhode Island verify that the payment fully satisfied an outstanding vehicle loan?
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for your specific situation. Detailed Answer When an estate administrator pays off an outstanding vehicle loan in Rhode Island, verifying that the debt is fully satisfied protects the estate and ensures clear title transfer. Below are key […]
Read article →How does an incomplete or missing marriage certificate affect a surviving spouse’s allowance claim in Rhode Island?
Disclaimer: This article provides general legal information and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer Under Rhode Island law, a surviving spouse may claim a family allowance from the decedent’s estate to cover living expenses during probate. The probate court grants this allowance under R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-15-1. A certified marriage certificate normally proves […]
Read article →How can a client obtain appointment as administrator in Rhode Island when a higher-priority heir exists?
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult an attorney for guidance tailored to your situation. Detailed Answer Statutory Priority for Letters of Administration Rhode Island law establishes a ranked list of heirs entitled to letters of administration. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-15-7 (link), the order is: […]
Read article →What is the process and timeline for applying to become the personal representative of an estate in Rhode Island?
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer 1. Filing a Petition in Rhode Island Probate Court To begin, you must file a petition for appointment as personal representative in the probate court of the city or town where the decedent lived. Under R.I. Gen. Laws §33-15-4, […]
Read article →How can a guardian or guardian ad litem be appointed to manage a minor’s interest in an estate in Rhode Island?
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 In Rhode Island, a minor cannot manage assets or property left in an estate. The Probate Division of the Rhode Island District Court oversees the appointment of a […]
Read article →What steps protect a minor’s inheritance in Rhode Island when the decedent did not leave a will?
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a qualified attorney. Detailed Answer When a Rhode Island resident dies without a will (intestate), minor children often inherit under state law. Rhode Island’s intestacy rules appear in R.I. Gen. Laws Title 33, Chapter 13 […]
Read article →What mechanisms ensure the administrator complies with estate duties and bond requirements in Rhode Island?
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific circumstances. Detailed Answer In Rhode Island, the probate court employs several mechanisms to ensure an estate administrator fulfills duties and meets bond requirements. Below are the primary safeguards: 1. Bond Requirement Under […]
Read article →Can a Personal Representative Seek a Commission on Estate Assets and Sale Proceeds in Rhode Island?
Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Rhode Island law and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer Under Rhode Island law, a personal representative (also called an executor or administrator) may receive a commission for administering an estate. R.I. Gen. Laws §33-23-7 authorizes the probate court to set statutory maximum rates based on the […]
Read article →What steps are required to locate, inventory, and distribute estate assets and settle debts in Rhode Island?
Detailed Answer When a Rhode Island resident passes away, probate begins by filing a petition in the Superior Court (Surrogate Division) in the county where the decedent lived. If you find a will, file a petition for probate under RIGL §33-15-1. If there's no will, petition for letters of administration under RIGL §33-9-1. Next, the […]
Read article →How Do Rhode Island Intestacy Rules Apply If No Valid Will Is Found?
How Do Rhode Island Intestacy Rules Apply If No Valid Will Is Found? Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance tailored to your situation. Detailed Answer When a deceased person in Rhode Island dies without a valid will, their estate passes under […]
Read article →