Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Estate Administration in West Virginia
In West Virginia, estate administration falls under the jurisdiction of the Circuit Court in the county where the decedent resided. Each Circuit Court has a Probate Division, and the County Clerk’s Office serves as the probate clerk. To begin administration, you file a petition, an inventory of assets, and other required documents with the County Clerk. The process follows West Virginia Code §44-1-1 et seq. (W. Va. Code, Chapter 44, Article 1).
Unclaimed Property Claims in West Virginia
Unclaimed property claims go through the West Virginia State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Division. The Division operates under the Uniform Unclaimed Property Act at West Virginia Code §36A-1-101 et seq. (W. Va. Code, Chapter 36A). To search for unclaimed assets and file a claim, visit the Treasurer’s website at wvtTreasury.com/unclaimed-property. Claims typically require proof of identity and documentation linking you to the property.
Helpful Hints
- Locate the County Clerk’s Office in the county where the decedent lived to file probate documents.
- Review W. Va. Code Chapter 44, Article 1 for deadlines, fees, and required inventories in estate administration.
- Gather a certified death certificate, asset list, and beneficiary information before filing for probate.
- Use the State Treasurer’s online portal to search for unclaimed property by name or business.
- Prepare proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license) and asset ownership documents (e.g., bank statements) for unclaimed property claims.