Probate in Alaska | AK Legal Resources | FastCounsel

How Are Real Property and Personal Assets Identified, Inventoried, and Distributed Under Intestacy Law in Alaska?

Understanding Intestate Succession in Alaska Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer 1. Overview of Alaska’s Intestacy Law When a person dies without a valid will in Alaska, the estate passes under the Alaska Intestate Succession Act (AS 13.12). The court appoints a personal representative who […]

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What deed should Alaska heirs sign to convey their interests in out-of-state property, and how is it recorded?

Detailed Answer When heirs of an Alaska decedent need to transfer real property located in another jurisdiction, they typically use a quitclaim deed or a personal representative’s deed after probate in Alaska. Under AS 13.16.110 (Personal representative’s deed), a personal representative appointed by an Alaska court may execute a deed conveying the decedent’s interest. If […]

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How can a client verify that creditor notice requirements were satisfied in the original Alaska estate to rely on the two-year rule?

Detailed Answer Under Alaska probate law, a personal representative must satisfy creditor notice requirements in order to invoke the two-year bar on claims. To verify compliance, follow these steps: Obtain the probate file. Contact the Superior Court where the estate was probated. Request the complete probate docket and all filed documents. Many Alaska courts offer […]

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Should a Personal Representative in AK Open an Estate Account to Handle Estate Funds?

Detailed Answer: Opening an Estate Account in Alaska As a personal representative (sometimes called an executor or administrator), you handle an estate’s assets and debts. One of your first duties is to open a separate estate bank account. This account holds all estate funds—income, sale proceeds, dividends, and cash—separate from your personal finances. Keeping estate […]

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What Steps Are Needed to Bring Real Property into an Estate to Pay Claims in Alaska?

Detailed Answer Bringing real property into an Alaska estate to pay creditor claims requires following specific probate procedures under Alaska Statutes Title 13. Below is an overview of the key steps. File for Probate and Appoint a Personal Representative. The first step is to open a probate case in the Superior Court of the decedent’s […]

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How Can the Administrator Verify That the Payment Fully Satisfied the Outstanding Vehicle Loan in AK?

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney to address your specific situation. Detailed Answer When an estate’s personal representative (administrator) pays off a vehicle loan, it’s crucial to confirm that the lender has released its security interest and recorded satisfaction of the debt. In […]

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Can I seek reimbursement from the estate for paying the funeral bill? (AK)

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a licensed attorney in Alaska. Detailed Answer Alaska law treats funeral and burial costs as an expense of estate administration. Under AS 13.16.117, the personal representative must pay reasonable funeral expenses from estate assets. They […]

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How Does a Missing or Incomplete Marriage Certificate Affect a Surviving Spouse’s Allowance Claim in AK?

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer Under Alaska law, a surviving spouse may petition the probate court for a family allowance to cover living expenses during estate administration. The family allowance takes priority over most claims against the estate (AS 13.16.100). To qualify for this […]

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What is the process and timeline for applying to become the personal representative of an estate in Alaska?

Disclaimer: This article provides general information on Alaska probate law and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer Overview In Alaska, a personal representative (sometimes called an executor or administrator) oversees estate administration, pays debts, and distributes assets to heirs. See AS 13.16.010 for definitions and authority. Eligibility and Priority Under AS 13.16.020, the court […]

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How can a client obtain appointment as administrator when a higher-priority heir exists in Alaska?

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation. Detailed Answer Under Alaska law, the court appoints an administrator (personal representative) of an intestate estate based on a strict priority list. See AS 13.12.020. If you are not the highest-priority […]

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