How do I value collectibles like Pokemon cards when preparing my estate paperwork in MS?
Detailed answer This article explains how to establish a reliable fair-market value for collectibles such as Pokemon trading cards when preparing estate paperwork under Mississippi law. It covers who must do the valuation, how to determine value, when to get a professional appraisal, and documentation practices that help executors and beneficiaries avoid disputes or tax […]
Read article →What are the legal requirements and process for transferring a decedent’s firearms during probate (MS)
Detailed answer — How firearms in a deceased person’s estate are handled under Mississippi law This answer explains the common legal steps and requirements that typically apply when a person dies owning firearms in Mississippi. It describes the probate role, federal restrictions that affect transfers, practical steps an executor or heir should take, and special […]
Read article →What documentation is needed to prove ownership when filing a surplus funds claim in Mississippi (MS)?
How to Prove Ownership When Filing a Surplus Funds Claim in Mississippi Short answer: To claim surplus funds from a sheriff’s sale or tax sale in Mississippi you must prove you are the lawful owner (or the lawful representative of the owner). Most successful claims include: a certified deed or title history, government ID, proof […]
Read article →How to Protect Life Insurance Proceeds When There Is No Named Beneficiary from Creditor Claims in Estate Administration — Mississippi (MS)
Detailed answer — what happens to life insurance proceeds with no beneficiary in Mississippi and how to protect them from creditor claims When a life insurance policy has no living named beneficiary, the insurer generally pays the death benefit to the deceased person’s estate. Once the proceeds are payable to the estate, they typically enter […]
Read article →What should I do if an heir refuses to return estate property and the estate is still open? (MS)
What to do when an heir refuses to return estate property while the estate is still open — Mississippi FAQ-style guide: Practical steps under Mississippi law to recover estate property, what the probate court can do, and when to consider civil or criminal remedies. Disclaimer This page is for educational purposes only and is not […]
Read article →Can I become the personal representative of my sister's estate? (MS)
Can I become the personal representative of my sister's estate? Short answer: Possibly. Under Mississippi law you can serve as the personal representative (sometimes called executor or administrator) if the will names you or if the probate court appoints you under the state’s priority rules — provided you are not disqualified. This article explains how […]
Read article →What options do heirs have when an estate administrator becomes unresponsive or refuses to distribute assets? (MS)
Detailed Answer This FAQ explains the practical options heirs have in Mississippi when an estate administrator (also called a personal representative or executor) becomes unresponsive or refuses to distribute estate assets. This is an overview meant to help you decide how to proceed; it is not legal advice. 1. First steps — communicate and document […]
Read article →How do I apply to be appointed as the personal representative of a deceased relative’s estate in MS?
FAQ: How to apply to be appointed as the personal representative of a deceased relative’s estate (Mississippi) Short answer: In Mississippi you petition the chancery court in the county where the decedent lived to open the estate and ask for appointment of letters (either letters testamentary if there is a will or letters of administration […]
Read article →How Can Heirs Petition the Court to Reopen a Closed Estate to Claim Unclaimed Assets in Mississippi
Detailed Answer If you are an heir in Mississippi and discover assets that were not distributed when an estate closed, you can ask the chancery court to reopen probate. Mississippi Code Section 91-7-353 authorizes a court to reopen an estate to administer newly discovered property or unpaid claims. Before filing, confirm you qualify as an […]
Read article →What Is the Process for Inventorying and Distributing Estate Assets Among Multiple Heirs in Mississippi?
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer In Mississippi, probate law governs how you inventory and distribute estate assets among multiple heirs. The process ensures an orderly valuation, creditor payment, and transfer of assets under court supervision. Below are the key steps under Mississippi law. Appointment […]
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