Best Probate Lawyers in Fort Collins

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Fort Collins, Colorado?

  You may call 970-491-6425 for non-emergency concerns in Fort Collins.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Fort Collins, Colorado?

  You may contact 970-221-6540 and choose Option 5 to talk to an employee of the Police Records Unit of Fort Collins. You may also visit the office at 2221 S. Timberline Road.

• What common mistakes should be avoided when making a will to help prevent probate conflicts in Fort Collins?

  Common mistakes that should be avoided in making a will to help prevent probate conflicts in Fort Collins include the following:

  • not discussing plans with the family, which would give rise to surprises and uncertainties among members
  • forgetting pets
  • not including certain assets, which make them subject to the rules of the state
  • appointing the wrong executor, a responsibility that should be imposed on someone impartial, trustworthy, financially savvy, and organized
  • not updating the will.

• What happens to a deceased person’s property in Fort Collins if they die with no will?

  If a deceased person in Fort Collins dies with no will, their property and assets will usually be bequeathed to their spouse and their children. In some cases when they have none at the time of death, close relatives, such as parents and siblings, could be next in line in inheriting their property. If there are no family members and they could not be found, the property will be acquired by the state.

• What is the difference between a will and a trust, and how do they affect probate in Fort Collins?

  The difference between a will and a trust in Fort Collins is that a will does not activate until after death, while a trust can be used to manage assets before or after death. Various types of trusts help protect beneficiaries from creditors, ex-spouses, predators, and even the decedent themselves. Dying without a trust or a will necessitates the state to dictate the way assets will be distributed and to assign the person who will administer the estate.

• What is the purpose of wills and trusts, and how can they help an estate in the event of probate in Fort Collins?

  Wills and trusts serve as an estate plan’s foundation in Fort Collins. They are tailored to adapt to the unique condition of the family and how to meet their particular needs. They are made to best fit one’s assets and specific situations. Wills and trusts can help an estate in the event of probate by enabling the wishes of the deceased to be followed, including the specific nuances of the family, which the court may not be able to determine otherwise.

• Is probate a requirement in Fort Collins?

  No, probate litigation is not always required in Fort Collins. The court’s involvement varies in each case. If an estate’s value is below a certain threshold, state law classifies it as a small estate, and the court sees no need to supervise it formally or mandate its settlement. If it is not a small estate and the heirs agree on how to divide it, then probate is filed as a case of informal administration, where the court plays a small role.