Probate in Utah | UT Legal Resources | FastCounsel

What records are needed to show asset transfers under small estate procedures? (UT)

Detailed Answer Short summary: To document asset transfers under Utah small‑estate procedures you will need clear identification of the decedent, a certified death certificate, an affidavit or other small‑estate claim form allowed by Utah law, evidence of your authority to collect (heir or beneficiary status), and contemporaneous records showing the assets and how they were […]

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What are the legal requirements and process for transferring a decedent’s firearms during probate in UT?

Transferring a Decedent’s Firearms During Probate in Utah: Legal Requirements and Step-by-Step Process Summary / Quick Answer When someone dies in Utah, the person in charge of the estate (the personal representative, sometimes called the executor or administrator) must secure the decedent’s firearms, inventory them, and follow Utah probate rules for distribution or sale. In […]

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How to protect life insurance proceeds when there is no named beneficiary from creditor claims in estate administration (UT)

Detailed Answer Short answer: If a life insurance policy has no living named beneficiary when the insured dies, the carrier usually pays the proceeds to the insured’s estate. Once proceeds become estate property they typically pass through probate and can become available to creditors. In Utah you can reduce that risk before death by naming […]

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What should I do if an heir refuses to return estate property and the estate is still open (UT)

How to handle an heir who refuses to return estate property when the estate is still open Short answer: Do not use force or take self-help. First gather documents and send a written demand. If the heir still refuses, ask the probate court to enforce the personal representative’s authority and order turnover of the property, […]

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Can I become the personal representative of my sister's estate? (UT)

Detailed Answer This answer explains how a sister can be appointed the personal representative (sometimes called an executor or administrator) of a decedent’s estate in Utah. It assumes you have no prior legal knowledge. This is general information only and not legal advice. What a personal representative does The personal representative gathers the decedent’s assets, […]

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What options do heirs have when an estate administrator becomes unresponsive or refuses to distribute assets? (UT)

What to do when an estate administrator in Utah is unresponsive or refuses to distribute assets Disclaimer: This is general information and not legal advice. Consult a qualified Utah attorney about your specific situation. Detailed Answer — Rights and practical steps for heirs in Utah Under Utah law, a personal representative (often called an administrator […]

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How do I apply to be appointed as the personal representative of a deceased relative’s estate in UT?

Detailed Answer Short answer: To be appointed as the personal representative (sometimes called executor or administrator) of a deceased relative’s estate in Utah, you must file a petition for appointment in the appropriate Utah district court, provide the required documents (death certificate, original will if any, list of heirs), serve required notices, and meet Utah’s […]

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How Can Heirs Petition the Court to Reopen a Closed Estate to Claim Unclaimed Assets in Utah?

Detailed Answer This article explains how heirs can petition a Utah probate court to reopen a closed estate and claim assets discovered after final distribution. This is not legal advice. 1. Verify the Estate Closure and Timeline First, obtain a copy of the probate court’s final order closing the estate. Under Utah Code Ann. § […]

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What is the process for inventorying and distributing estate assets among multiple heirs in Utah?

Detailed Answer When a person passes away in Utah, the personal representative (PR) named in the will or appointed by the court must inventory and distribute the decedent’s assets. This process ensures heirs receive their share lawfully and creditors are paid. 1. Appointment of the Personal Representative Before any inventory, you must file a petition […]

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How Do Heirs Locate and Claim Unclaimed Property of a Deceased Relative in Utah?

Detailed Answer Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Under Utah law, unclaimed property refers to financial assets that holders must report and deliver to the state after a dormancy period. Common examples include uncashed checks, bank accounts, insurance proceeds and contents of safe deposit boxes. The Utah […]

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