Probate in Kentucky | KY Legal Resources | FastCounsel

How Can an Executor Challenge a Creditor Claim on Predatory Lending Grounds for an Elderly Decedent in KY?

Detailed Answer When a loved one passes away, the executor must review all creditor claims against the estate. Under Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) 395.020, you must allow claims that meet formal requirements and object to those you believe are invalid. If you suspect predatory lending—where an elderly decedent faced high-rate loans or unfair terms—you can […]

Read article →

How to Access and Withdraw Money from a Deceased Person’s Bank Account During Probate in KY

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation. Detailed Answer When someone dies in Kentucky, their assets—including bank accounts—must go through probate before distribution. Probate gives the court the authority to validate the will (if one exists), appoint […]

Read article →

What factors determine the total cost of administering an estate in KY?

Detailed Answer When someone passes away in Kentucky, an executor or administrator settles their estate. Several factors influence the total cost of this process. Understanding these costs helps you plan and avoid surprises. 1. Size and Complexity of the Estate Larger estates involve more assets—real estate, investments, retirement accounts, business interests—and require detailed accounting. Executors […]

Read article →

Which Documents and Certificates Should Be Collected to Begin Estate Administration in Kentucky?

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer Before you start estate administration in Kentucky, gather key documents. Organizing these materials speeds the probate process under KRS Chapter 396. 1. Death Certificate Obtain multiple certified copies of the death certificate. You need them to notify banks, transfer assets, […]

Read article →

How to Manage Estate Expenses and Ongoing Bills During Probate in Kentucky

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer 1. Appointment of a Personal Representative In Kentucky probate, the court appoints a personal representative (PR)—sometimes called an executor or administrator—to manage the estate. The PR must follow duties […]

Read article →

How to Enforce Distribution of Life Insurance Proceeds in Probate in Kentucky When No Beneficiary Was Designated

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation. Detailed Answer Under Kentucky law, if a decedent dies without naming a beneficiary for a life insurance policy, the insurer must pay the proceeds to the insured’s estate. See KRS 304.13-040 […]

Read article →

How Can a Beneficiary Compel an Estate Administrator to Pay an Inheritance Share in KY?

Detailed Answer Under Kentucky law, a beneficiary has the right to receive their share once an estate administrator completes payment of valid debts, taxes, and expenses. If the administrator delays or refuses to distribute assets, you can take several steps to compel payment. 1. Review the Probate File Obtain a copy of the probate record […]

Read article →

How Does Intestate Succession Work in Kentucky When There Is No Spouse and Two Children?

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a qualified attorney. Detailed Answer When someone dies in Kentucky without a valid will, the estate passes by intestate succession according to state law. Under Kentucky Revised Statutes §391.020, if there is no surviving […]

Read article →

How Does Intestate Succession Work in Kentucky When There Is No Spouse and Three Children?

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Kentucky intestate succession and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer Statutory Framework for Intestate Succession Under Kentucky law, when a person dies without a valid will (intestate), their property passes according to the provisions of Kentucky Revised […]

Read article →

How Can the Slayer Statute Rule Affect an Heir's Right to Inherit in Kentucky?

Impact of Kentucky’s Slayer Statute on Inheritance Rights Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer In Kentucky, the “slayer rule” prevents an heir who unlawfully and intentionally kills the decedent from inheriting from that person’s estate. The rule appears in KRS 391.090, which states that anyone […]

Read article →