How will I know if there is a Will?
You should first check with attorneys that the deceased had contact with in the past. You should also check for a Safety Deposit Box at the bank(s) where the deceased did his/her banking. You should then check with other family members to see if they may know of a Will.

How do I know if the Will is valid?
Once you have checked all sources listed above, then you must determine by date the most recent Will and/or codicil. The most recent or only Will would be considered a valid Will.

What is a codicil?
A codicil is a document that updates or amends an existing Will without rewriting the Will itself.

What should I do once I find a Will or determine that there is no Will?
If there is a Will, you should contact the named executor/executrix in the Will. You should then seek the advice of an attorney. If there is no Will, you should seek the advice of an attorney.

What happens next?
If it is determined that the Will must be probated, then an estate must be opened in the county where the deceased resided at the time of death.

How is an Estate handled and by whom?
If there is a valid Will or codicil, the executor(s), or alternate, will be sworn in by the Register of Wills in the county where the estate is opened. They will be empowered by the court to administer the estate until all matters are settled.

If there is no valid Will or codicil, then the court will appoint an administrator to handle the estate.

What if the deceased is survived by a spouse?
Unless there is a Will with specific provisions and/or trust funds, everything will pass to the surviving spouse.

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