Best Probate Lawyers in Fishers

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Fishers, Indiana?

  For non-emergency concerns, you can call the Fishers Police Department at 317-595-3300 or 317-773-1282 for dispatch.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Fishers, Indiana?

  You can request records from the Erie Police Department online at https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/1d067b81d48b4723ad1584947d650d9c

• Is there a deadline for initiating probate in Fishers?

  Under Indiana Code Section 29-1-7-15.1 (g), wills for probate must be filed within three years of the decedent’s passing. In the case of a missing person presumed dead, the three-year count shall start from the date the death was legally established. It is advised that you seek counsel from a Fishers probate lawyer to ensure your probate filing is within the required timelines.

• Do all estates have to be probated in Fishers?

  Not necessarily. Only assets solely owned by the decedent, regardless there is a will or none, are required to undergo probate in Fishers. Small estates with a gross valuation of no more than $50,000 need not go through probate to be administered. To do so, the individual wishing to administer a small estate must complete a Small Estate Affidavit 45 days after the decedent's death. The person must have entitlement to the distribution of the estate.

• What is the fiduciary bond required from executors and personal representatives in Fishers?

  According to the Hamilton County Local Rules for Probate Section 705.10, before the executor or personal representative can be issued letters authorizing them to administer the estate in Fishers, they must first provide a corporate surety bond. The bond protects the estate beneficiaries, tax authorities, and creditors should the executor commit an error. The bond value shall be determined by the court and is based on the estate’s total value.

• What can a probate lawyer in Fishers help you with?

  Probate lawyers in Fishers can help surviving families and estate executors or personal representatives navigate the probate process, including:

  • Filing the will
  • Opening an estate for the decedent
  • Collecting the decedent’s assets
  • Transferring assets into the estate
  • Accessing and closing the decedent’s bank accounts
  • Appraising and liquidating assets
  • Paying off claims and taxes
  • Finding beneficiaries
  • Providing experts like accountants and Realtors

  Probate lawyers can also represent executors in disputes like inheritance contests.

• Can the surviving family get financial support from the estate while the probate is ongoing in Fishers?

  Yes, Indiana Code Section 29-1-4-1 accounts for the allowance entitlement of surviving family members in Fishers. The decedent’s surviving spouse is entitled to $25,000. If the decedent has no surviving spouse but has minor children under 18 years, the children are also entitled to $25,000 collectively. Each child shall get an equal share of the $25,000. This allowance will be sourced from the decedent’s personal property.