Probate in Nevada takes an average of six months to a year, but is not bound by this time frame. A Nevada probate lawyer can provide counsel and handle logistics to speed up the process, but the amount of time it takes can still vary. Seek the advice of Simplifying Probate to receive a more accurate estimate based on your unique circumstances.
Probate Timeline in Nevada
Probate can take anywhere from a few months to more than a year to resolve. This process involves hearings, an estate inventory and appraisal, notice to various parties, settlement of debts, and distribution of assets to heirs and beneficiaries. The time it takes to complete each phase varies, and certain steps may have minimum waiting periods.
Factors That Impact How Long Probate Will Take
Every case is unique, and certain factors can impact the overall timeline for resolving probate. Complex estates and obstacles can add considerable time to the process. Below is a closer look at some common challenges that can increase the time it takes to settle your loved one’s estate.
Complexity of the Estate
Large estates with multiple types of assets generally take longer to resolve. The estate must first be inventoried and appraised to determine how much it is worth. For estates valued between $100,000 and $300,000, summary administration is used to streamline probate and reduce the number of court hearings throughout the process in an attempt to minimize the amount of time it takes.
Contested Wills
If an eligible party contests the will, this automatically increases the probate timeline. The validity of the will must be verified through litigation before probate can continue. If the will goes through to probate, the normal process resumes. However, if the will is rejected, it must be processed through the intestate process, which requires even more time.
Intestate Succession
When an individual dies without a will, or an existing will is declared invalid through contest, intestate succession divides up assets according to the hierarchy of surviving familial relationships. Identifying and notifying these parties and ensuring assets are distributed fairly can increase the time it takes to resolve the estate.
Special Administration
Probate sometimes requires special administrators to act in a limited, interim role when there are delays appointing a personal representative, the value of the estate is unknown, or the estate needs protection from adversarial parties. While this individual helps the estate continue its progress through probate, petitioning the court to become a special administrator also takes time. The court must still determine who will serve as the fully appointed representative as well. Overall, this process could vary and extend probate.
Legal Representation Reduces the Time It Takes to Resolve Probate
Legal representation streamlines probate and reduces the amount of time it takes to settle an estate and close probate. A lawyer can navigate these challenges effectively and efficiently to secure results as quickly as possible. Contact Simplifying Probate today to book an appointment