How would you write a letter to probate court to find out . . .

[Bertha Venation]

. . . whether your father had a will or a trust?

Our evil stepmother refuses to talk to us. We have no way of knowing what kind of document(s) our dad left behind.

How would you word a letter? I have some ideas but want more.

Thanks!

[Shell Beau]

1. Well if he did, it is public record. You may be able to check online.

Some courthouses have them online. You may also call and ask them to check for you. Sometimes (at least here) they will be nice enough to run his name through the computer. Or if you are near, you can go look it up yourself. It is really easy to do.

I do this for a living, so if you need help should you decide to go check yourself, PM me.

[rug]

2. The court won't know unless someone filed the will for probate.

Wills are not routinely recorded until probate. But if it was, the court clerks will be very helpful, especially since most records are online and can be found by name.

If it has not yet gone to probate, and if you have strong reasons to believe there is a will, call a lawyer in that jurisdiction immediately. Concealing a will is a crime.

[AngryAmish]

3. 1.. Hire a lawyer and let him do it

If that is not feasable, his will is supposed to be filed in the county of his residence. Check online there or call up the local clerk of court. They could find out.

If you think you are not getting something, you can always open an estate yourself for your father. But that gets pricy lawyer-wise.

Best advice - call a lawyer.