Probate Spies are Hiding Everywhere. Really. – Bella Vista Probate Attorney
Most people think of probate as a private process. However, since wills are filed at the courthouse, probated estates become a matter of public record. That means your nosy neighbor Nellie can simply go down to the courthouse or hop online and find out about your probate. Really.
- Financial predators. While today’s digital world is convenient, it’s also dangerous. Financial predators find ways to access information online. Since courts are part of a bureaucratic process that often moves slower than a glacier, months can elapse before you (or the court) realizes that your beneficiaries have been swindled.
- Charities. Even the most well-meaning charities can become an annoyance when money is considered “up for grabs.” This is especially true in an estate situation when those inheriting assets want to do the right thing and honor their loved one.
- Will challengers. Public record documents such as probate provide those with an interest (whether valid or invalid) to challenge the will. This can equate to added costs and time defending the will.