Introduction: - Are you uncertain about the need for an attorney in the probate process? Are you facing the role of an executor and feeling overwhelmed? In this episode, we're joined by Leanne Sears, an experienced attorney from Wessels and Gerber in Georgia, specializing in probate and real estate transactions. Segment 1: Meet Leanne Sears - Leanne highlights Wessels and Gerber's focus on real estate transactions (primarily residential) and assisting families with probate. - Explains the connection between real estate and probate, emphasizing the importance of handling inherited properties. Segment 2: Understanding Probate - Leanne clarifies the misconception that having a will means immediate action, highlighting the probate process's role in validating the will. - Describes probate as the process of proving a will's authenticity in the local probate court where the deceased lived. - Emphasizes the need for a death certificate, the original will, and communication with heirs to move forward in probate. Segment 3: Taking the First Steps - Leanne advises taking time to grieve and prioritize funeral arrangements before diving into probate. - Discusses the importance of having a death certificate and determining the rightful heirs according to state statutes. - Acknowledges the differences in probate timelines, ranging from a few weeks in straightforward cases to potentially months in complicated situations. Segment 4: Probate Without a Will - Explores the scenario of probate when there is no will, highlighting the state's laws of intestacy. - Emphasizes the need for an administrator, appointed by the court, to handle the estate's affairs in the absence of a will. Segment 5: Timelines and Complications - Leanne provides a general timeline for probate, discussing the variations based on different factors. - Highlights the potential complications, such as disagreements among heirs, which can extend the probate process. - Stresses the importance of contacting the local probate court for specific information tailored to the jurisdiction. Segment 6: Handling Missing Heirs - Discusses the challenges of dealing with missing heirs and the steps involved in attempting to locate them. - Explains the legal processes, including publishing notices to heirs, when an heir is missing or unresponsive. Segment 7: Probate Costs and Attorney Involvement - Leanne discusses the costs associated with probate, providing an estimate for a straightforward case. - Emphasizes the value of hiring an attorney to ensure the process is handled correctly and avoid potential complications. - Highlights the importance of obtaining letters of testamentary or letters of administration to act on behalf of the estate. Segment 8: Executor's Responsibilities - Explores the responsibilities of an executor, particularly when outlined in a well-drafted will. - Advises against DIY probate due to the complexities involved and potential title issues that could arise. - Emphasizes the executor's fiduciary duty and the need to set up an estate bank account for proper fund distribution. Segment 9: Common Issues and Disputes - Addresses common issues in probate, including family disputes over personal property. - Recommends keeping personal property lists separate from wills to avoid challenges. - Discusses the importance of simplicity in wills to minimize potential conflicts among heirs. Segment 10: Letters of Testamentary - Explains the significance of letters of testamentary or letters of administration as the document granting authority to act on behalf of the estate. - Compares them to the golden snitch in the Harry Potter series, representing the endgame in the probate process. Conclusion: - TJ expresses gratitude to Leanne for sharing valuable insights into the probate process. - Reiterates the importance of seeking legal guidance for probate matters and provides contact information for Wessels and Gerber. Outro: - If you have further questions or need assistance with