Determination of Heirs
Determination of Heirs Attorney in Denver
Determination of heirs proceedings occur when some asset of a deceased individual – such as property or a home – has not been distributed through probate either because probate was never initiated for the decedent’s estate or because a specific beneficiary for that asset was never named. Determination of heirs proceedings are an alternative to probate that allow certain beneficiaries to transfer the title or ownership of undistributed assets into their own names so that they then have legal authority over the assets. In order to initiate determination of heirs proceedings in Colorado, the following qualifications must be met:
- At least one year has passed since the decedent’s death.
- There is proof that the asset in question was never distributed to any beneficiary, meaning that the decedent’s estate was not officially settled.
Upon meeting these qualifications, the court will set a date for the determination of heirs proceedings, and any individuals who may have an interest in the property in question will be notified of the date and will be informed of the date by which they have to file an objection (should they object to the proceedings).
When the appointed date arrives, during the determination of heirs proceedings, the court will make judgments regarding:
- The legal standing of the individual who initiated the proceedings (i.e., whether that individual is the proper beneficiary according to Colorado laws).
- Any other heirs of the decedent.
- Whether there are owners by inheritance for the asset in question.
- Whether any filed objections are relevant in the case.
Given how complex determination of heirs proceedings can be, it’s crucial that you have experienced legal representation to ensure the best possible outcome to this process.
The Denver lawyer at Donald Glenn Peterson Attorney at Law is experienced at helping our clients with simple to complex determination of heirs matters and proceedings.
Consulting with an Experienced Denver Estate Administration Lawyer
If you need assistance with any part of determination of heirs proceedings, the Denver estate administration lawyer at Donald Glenn Peterson Attorney at Law is here to help you at every step of the process. Regardless of whether your case is contested, our full-service law firm can aggressively defend your rights and interests to help you resolve your determination of heirs matters as efficiently and favorably as possible.
For more information regarding our services, as well as professional legal advice regarding the best manner in which to move forward with your determination of heirs affairs, contact the experienced and trusted Denver estate administration lawyer at Donald Glenn Peterson Attorney at Law by emailing us or calling (303) 758-0999.