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Under Utah law, you must follow a series of steps to open a probate case, file required court documents, and publish notices to creditors. These procedures ensure that the decedent’s assets are distributed properly and that valid creditor claims are addressed.

1. Choose the Probate Procedure
   Utah offers both informal and formal probate. Informal probate is faster and requires less court supervision. Formal probate is required if there are disputes or complex assets. Determine which process fits your situation. See Utah Code §75-3-102 (definitions) and §75-3-103 (commencing probate proceedings): le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter3/75-3-S103.html.
2. Prepare and File the Petition
   Complete the probate petition form provided by the district court in the county where the decedent resided. Include:
   • Decedent’s name and date of death
   • Names and addresses of heirs and devisees
   • Estimated value of assets
   • Your request for appointment as personal representative

   File the petition and pay filing fees at the court clerk’s office. Utah Code §75-3-103: le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter3/75-3-S103.html.

3. Serve Notice on Heirs and Interested Parties
   After filing, the court will issue a notice of hearing. Serve this notice personally or by mail on all heirs, devisees, and interested parties at least 10 days before the hearing. See Utah Code §75-3-203 (notice of petition): le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter3/75-3-S203.html.
4. Publish Notice to Creditors
   Within 30 days of the personal representative’s appointment, publish a notice to creditors once a week for three consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the county of probate. The notice must:
   • State the decedent’s name and date of death
   • Identify the personal representative
   • Specify the deadline for creditor claims (three months from first publication)

   Utah Code §75-3-801: le.utah.gov/xcode/Title75/Chapter3/75-3-S801.html.

5. Wait for the Creditor Claims Period
   Creditors have three months from the first publication date to submit claims. Claims filed after this period are barred unless the court grants an extension for good cause.
6. File Proof of Publication
   Obtain an affidavit of publication from the newspaper and file it with the probate court. This document confirms that you fulfilled the publication requirement.
7. Address Creditor Claims and Close Probate
   Review all timely claims. Pay or contest valid claims before distributing remaining assets. Finally, file a closing statement and petition for discharge of the personal representative.

Helpful Hints

• Start early: Newspaper deadlines and court hearings can take weeks.
• Verify local rules: Each Utah county may have specific forms or fee schedules.
• Keep detailed records: Track service dates, publications, and claim deadlines.
• Consult resources: Court websites often provide probate guides and forms.
• Consider attorney review: Even in uncontested cases, a brief consultation can prevent costly errors.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance tailored to your situation, consult a licensed attorney in Utah.