How Long Does Probate Take in North Carolina?

Losing a loved one is never easy, and the thought of dealing with the legalities surrounding their death can be overwhelming. If you find yourself responsible for handling the probate process, you may be wondering how long it typically takes in North Carolina.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the timeline for probate in North Carolina and offer tips for getting the help you need to navigate the process. For more help, contact a Kernersville estate planning attorney at Apple Payne Law to set up a consultation.

What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process that occurs after someone dies to distribute their assets to their heirs and beneficiaries.

During probate, a court will verify the validity of the deceased’s will (if there is one) and oversee the distribution of assets and payment of any outstanding debts. If there is no will, the court will appoint an executor to manage the estate and ensure that assets are distributed according to North Carolina law.

Typical Timeline for Probate in North Carolina

The probate process for a regular estate in North Carolina typically takes six to 12 months. However, this timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the estate. For example, if there are many properties, no will, or numerous heirs, the process may take longer, up to 18 months or more.

On average, the probate process in North Carolina takes around nine months, but this is not a hard and fast rule. Many variables can affect the timeline, including the size and complexity of the estate, the number of beneficiaries, and the amount of debt the estate owes.

Probate for a Simple Estate

If the estate is simple, meaning it has a value of less than $30,000 or less than $20,000, and the deceased was not married, and it can be collected by affidavit, the process will typically take much less time. In these cases, the probate process can be completed within 60 to 90 days, or even quicker.

Getting Help With Probate

If you feel overwhelmed by the probate process or unsure what to do, working with an experienced Kernersville probate lawyer may be helpful. The team at Apple Payne Law is here to help take this burden off of you. We have years of experience helping clients navigate the probate process, and we can guide you through each step.

You can contact us online or call if you need assistance with your probate matter. We are glad to set up a free consultation to meet with you and discuss your specific situation.