If my grandfather died and left a Will, how canI see a copy?
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If my grandfather died and left a Will, how canI see a copy?
I was named in the Will. When will the funds be released? The family is fighting and things are taking too long.
Asked on April 22, 2011 under Estate Planning, California
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
A beneficiary has the right to view any Will under which they have received a gift. In fact, by law the executor must notify them of their gift. Additionally, if you want to see the terms of the Will it will be a matter of public record as soon as it is filed with the appropriate probate court. At that point it becomes a matter of public record and can be seen by any one, whether or not they are listed as a beneficiary in it. What you need to do is go to the probate court in the county in which he was domiciled as of the date of his death. For a small fee, you can request a copy of his Will.
If you think that the executor, is not being forthcoming about estate matters and handling things in the best interests of the estate/beneficiaries, you can contact the probate court and report this. Appropriate action (including the possibility of removal as executor) can be taken.
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