LIMITLESS | learning
Get To Know Your Probate Lawyer… Before You Need Them
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s a seasoned estate planning and probate attorney, I’ve helped many clients get their “ducks in a row.” This is a gift they can give to their family, one that is a huge relief for them in a time of grief and loss.
Many clients ask if their family can call me for help with settling the estate. The answer is always a resounding “yes,” and it is an honor to serve the families of clients who have passed away. I recently had the pleasure of meeting with a family (father and children) for a “pre-need” probate consultation. “Dad” was very much alive and well and wanted his children to have a familiar face to call on when the time comes. It was most beneficial for us all to be able to discuss the probate process at a time when all the key players (especially Dad) could be present. The family walked away feeling educated and at ease. If you are reviewing your “to do” list, consider getting to know your probate lawyer and introducing them to your family. A trusted attorney experienced in estate administration will be a valuable asset to your loved ones, a relationship that may last for several months, so who better to make that introduction than you? Your loved ones will be relieved to know that when the time comes, they already have a trusted team member in their corner, ready to step in and help.
Amy Shue Isaacs Probate & Estate Administration Attorney The McIntosh Law Firm, P.C. www.mcintoshlawfirm.com
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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | AUGUST 2022
Surviving Spouse’s Year’s Allowance
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hen a spouse dies, it can be a very emotional time for the surviving spouse. On top of grieving, the surviving spouse also has to worry about North Carolina’s law on estate administration to make sure that all of their deceased spouse’s assets are in the survivor’s name. Under North Carolina General Statute 30-15, every surviving spouse, whether or not there is a Will, is entitled to the value of $60,000 worth of personal property of the Decedent for the surviving spouse’s support. This is called a Surviving Spouse’s Year’s Allowance. This allowance is exempt from any lien, judgment, costs of the estate, or debts of the estate. Therefore, if applied for, the year’s allowance must be paid prior to any creditors of the estate. This is a great way for a surviving spouse to claim vehicles, bank accounts, or household goods that were titled in the Decedent’s name solely to themselves. It is important to speak to an experienced estate administration attorney in North Carolina to make sure that the surviving spouse properly receives their year’s allowance. You do not want until the last minute due to time restrictions set by North Carolina law.
Danielle Feller is our lead estate administration attorney at Daly Mills Estate Planning. Danielle is a native of Mooresville, a member of WealthCounsel, ElderCounsel, and The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. She has been published in a chapter of Wealthcounsel’s second edition of Estate Planning Strategies, Collective Wisdom, Proven Techniques. Give Danielle a call today for a free consultation at 704-878-2365. You can also visit our website at www.DalyMillsEstatePlanning.com.
Danielle Feller Give Danielle a call today for a free consultation at 704-878-2365. You can also visit our website at www. DalyMillsEstatePlanning.com.
