Probate
Probate is a legal process which validates a Will then directs the process of distribution of an estate under the terms of that Will. A Will which is not proved valid or if a Will does not exist, the Probate process distributes the estate under Oklahoma Intestacy laws. Probate can take a long time to finalize which may become costly over time.
Oklahoma Probate process basically involves the following:
Initial filing of a probate petition
Hearing set for appointment of a Personal Representative, validation of the Will and determination of heirs and/or beneficiaries
Inventory of the estate is compiles and filed with the Court
Creditors notified and claims presented for payment
Tax returns filed
Additional proceedings approved by the Court for the sale of real or personal property for payment of debts
A Final Probate petition including an accounting for the Court’s approval
Hearing on the Final Account set for the Judge to sign an Order approving the accounting and ordering a final distribution of the remaining assets either under the terms of the Will or under the Intestacy statutes