Best Probate Lawyers in Winston Salem

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Winston Salem, North Carolina?

  336-773-7700 is the contact number of the Winston-Salem Police Department for non-emergency reports.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Winston Salem, North Carolina?

  Please fill out the form at https://www.cityofws.org/FormCenter/Police-Department-19/Request-for-Incident-Report-230 to request a copy of an incident report from the Winston-Salem Police Department.

• Are Winston-Salem probate processes open to the public?

  The North Carolina Judicial Branch states that once a Winston-Salem resident dies and their will is submitted to the probate court, it becomes public record. On the other hand, the only people with the privilege of seeing a living person's will are the person who signed the will, that person's lawyer, and that person's designated agent.

• How much does probate cost in Winston-Salem?

  The following fees for probate in Winston-Salem are outlined in the court costs and fees chart of the North Carolina Courts:

  • $106 for General Court of Justice fee;
  • $10 for facilities fee;
  • $4 for telecommunications and data connectivity fee;
  • $120 for the total of estates;
  • $200 for Caveat for Decedents Dying;
  • $20 for application for administration by the clerk; and
  • An additional tax based on the gross estate value.

• In Winston-Salem, how can you obtain a copy of a will?

  You can apply to the clerk of court in Winston-Salem to obtain a copy of a will. In most cases, you must proceed to the courthouse with the pertinent file number and ask the clerk to let you read the file. After paying a nominal copying fee, you can take a copy with you. When a will has not yet been proved, only specific persons, such as the beneficiaries designated in the will or the decedent's personal representative, may have access.

• What can you anticipate from the Winston-Salem probate process?

  In Winston-Salem, the probate procedure begins with a petition for probate. The court names an executor to manage the estate's administration following the filing of the petition. The probate court goes over all pertinent paperwork. When all required paperwork has been submitted and all debts have been settled, the executor then distributes the assets in accordance with the directions of the will.

• When should you update your estate plan in Winston-Salem?

  It is advisable to evaluate and revise your estate plan in Winston-Salem every three to five years or if there are substantial life changes, such as a marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or material change in your financial situation. Remember that estate planning is crucial because it enables people to decide how their possessions will be distributed after they pass away. Additionally, it helps save on probate expenses.