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Probate & Trust Law Section Conference Manual ... - Minnesota CLE

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Surviving Your First <strong>Probate</strong> Proceeding<br />

Amy E. Papenhausen<br />

Henson & Efron, P.A.<br />

I. Generally<br />

A. Statutory Authority for probate administrations in <strong>Minnesota</strong> is found in Chapters<br />

524 and 525. The Uniform <strong>Probate</strong> Code (Chapter 524) has been enacted in 18<br />

states including <strong>Minnesota</strong> but it should be noted that many states have modified<br />

the uniform provisions.<br />

B. Threshold for filing a probate in <strong>Minnesota</strong> is $50,000. If the estate is less than<br />

the threshold then an Affidavit of Collection is appropriate. <strong>Minnesota</strong> Statute<br />

<strong>Section</strong> 524.3-1201.<br />

D. Create a questionnaire and a checklist.<br />

C. Consider purchasing the <strong>Minnesota</strong> Estate Administration Deskbook (4th Edition-<br />

March 2012).<br />

II. Formal Versus Informal Proceedings<br />

A. Factors to consider when determining whether to open informally or formally:<br />

1. Is the estate solvent?<br />

2. Are there minor beneficiaries?<br />

3. Do you know who all the heirs are and have addresses for all of them?<br />

4. Are there known disputes among the heirs?<br />

5. Do you have the original will?<br />

6. Is the will executed properly?<br />

7. Is there real estate? If so, do the heirs plan to sell or distribute the real<br />

estate?<br />

B. Time limits for filing:<br />

1. At least 5 days (120 hours) must have passed since the Decedent’s death.<br />

2. Watch the survivorship clause in the will, if any.<br />

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