Best Probate Lawyers Stamford, CT

Stamford, CT Probate FAQs

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

  The phone number for non-emergency matters in Stamford is 203-977-4444.

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

  Incident reports in Stamford must be requested by email. You may send your request to spdrecords@stamfordct.gov. Make sure to include important information, such as your name, the date and time of the incident, the location of the incident, the type of incident, and the report number, if available.

• Are you required to retain an attorney for a probate case in Stamford?

  No. You are not required to retain an attorney for a probate case in Stamford. Connecticut’s Probate Court forms are user-friendly, and court staff are available to provide some assistance in completing the required forms. However, you should consider hiring a lawyer if the case is contested or involves complicated legal questions.

• How long does the probate procedure take in Stamford?

  There is no definitive answer to this question since the duration of the probate process in Stamford depends on various factors, including the type of probate required; the size, value, and complexity of the estate; and the skill and efficiency of the executor or administrator. Moreover, since creditors and interested parties have at least three months to file claims against the estate, the minimum time to probate an estate is four to five months. The process can also be prolonged if the will is contested.

• What are the reasons why will disputes happen in Stamford?

  In Stamford, will contests are commonly brought by people who question why someone was left out of the will, suspect family members exerted undue influence, or claim a fiduciary breach occurred. There are also instances where disputes arise due to the belief that the will is fake or void because of a later will.

• Are all assets subject to probate in Stamford?

  Not all assets are subject to probate in Stamford. Assets held in a trust, proceeds of a life insurance policy, and certain jointly held property do not have to go through the probate process. Funds in retirement accounts and funds held in accounts designated as “payable death” or “transfer on death” are also directed to beneficiaries without probate proceedings.

• Who will oversee the probate of an estate of a relative in Stamford who did not leave a will?

  If the decedent in Stamford passed away intestate, meaning without a will, any competent adult is eligible to volunteer to be the administrator of the estate. If nobody volunteers, the court will appoint someone as the case’s administrator. Do note that the duties and responsibilities of an executor and administrator are the same.