Understanding Transfer-on-Death Deeds in Oklahoma City

Transfer-on-Death Deeds

Transfer-on-Death (TOD) Deeds are one of the most effective tools available in Oklahoma estate planning to transfer real estate directly to a loved one without going through the probate process. Under Oklahoma law, property owners can name a beneficiary who automatically receives title to the property upon the owner’s death—bypassing the time, cost, and stress associated […]

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How Do Irrevocable Trusts Work in Oklahoma?

Irrevocable Trusts

Irrevocable trusts are a powerful estate planning tool for people who want to protect assets, reduce taxes, and plan for long-term financial stability. In Oklahoma, irrevocable trusts work differently than other types of trusts, like revocable living trusts, because they involve permanently giving up control of certain assets. Here’s what you need to know about […]

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How Do Revocable Trusts Work in Oklahoma?

Revocable Living Trust

If you’re planning your estate in Oklahoma, revocable trusts are one of the most flexible and useful tools available. Also known as a living trust, this estate planning option allows you to manage your assets during your lifetime—and decide how they’re distributed after your death—without going through probate. But how do revocable trusts actually work […]

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Using a Revocable Living Trust to Avoid Probate in Oklahoma

Revocable Living Trust

When planning your estate in Oklahoma, one of the most effective ways to avoid probate is by creating a revocable living trust. Unlike a traditional will, which must go through court after your death, a revocable trust allows your assets to transfer directly to your chosen beneficiaries, saving time, money, and stress for your loved […]

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How do I Disinherit Someone in a Will in Oklahoma?

Disinherit Someone in a Will

If you’re trying to disinherit someone in a will, there are certain steps you will need to follow. Writing a will gives you the legal power to determine how your assets will be distributed after your death. One choice you may face is whether to disinherit someone—meaning they will not receive any portion of your […]

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Can I Sell My Parent’s House Before Filing A Probate in Oklahoma City?

Contractor Breaches Contract

“Can I sell my parents house?” is a common legal question before the probate process. When a parent passes away, their estate, including real property such as a home, typically goes through the probate process. If you are managing your parent’s estate, you might wonder whether you can sell their house before filing for probate. […]

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What is the Probate Process in Oklahoma City?

Transfer-on-Death Deeds

In Oklahoma City, the probate process is several smaller legal proceedings that help settle someone’s estate after their death. This process ensures payment of the decedent’s debts and proper distribution of assets to the heirs or beneficiaries. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the probate process in Oklahoma City: Filing the Petition The probate process begins […]

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Who can be an Administrator of a Probate Estate in Oklahoma?

It is possible to avoid probate in Oklahoma through various estate planning strategies. Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s assets are distributed under court supervision. While probate can be necessary in some cases, it can also be time-consuming and costly. There are several methods to bypass the probate process, allowing for a more efficient transfer of assets to beneficiaries. Methods to Avoid Probate If you’re wanting to avoid the probate process, you have some options, such as: Revocable Living Trust: A revocable living trust is a legal document that places your assets into a trust during your lifetime. You retain control over the trust and can make changes or revoke it as needed. Upon your death, the successor trustee (whom you designate) transfers the assets to the beneficiaries without the need for probate. Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship: Joint tenancy allows two or more individuals to own property together with equal rights. Upon the death of one owner, the property automatically passes to the surviving owner(s). This transfer occurs outside of probate, provided the right of survivorship is clearly stated in the property deed. Transfer on Death (TOD) Deeds: Oklahoma allows for Transfer on Death Deeds, which let you name a beneficiary who will receive your real estate upon your death. You retain full ownership and control of the property during your lifetime. Upon your death, the property transfers to the named beneficiary without probate. Beneficiary Designations: Certain assets, such as life insurance policies and retirement accounts allow you to name a beneficiary directly. These assets transfer directly to the named beneficiaries upon your death, bypassing probate. Small Estate Affidavit: Oklahoma law allows for a simplified probate process for small estates, typically those valued at $50,000 or less. Heirs can use a small estate affidavit to claim the decedent’s assets without going through formal probate. This simplifies the process and reduces costs for small estates. If you’re considering one of these options, or others, consult with an estate planning attorney. Not only will they be able to explain all of the options, they’ll also be able to look at your situation and tell you which is best for you. Considerations When Avoiding Probate However, if you’re wanting to avoid probate, there are things you need to think about ahead of time. Legal Compliance: Ensure that all methods and documents comply with Oklahoma laws to avoid complications. Tax Implications: Understand the tax consequences of transferring assets, especially with gifting and trusts. Proper Documentation: Keep all documents, such as deeds, beneficiary designations, and trust agreements, up to date and legally valid. Work with an estate planning attorney to ensure your estate plan effectively avoids probate and meets your goals. Oklahoma City Estate Planning Attorneys Avoid probate

We often get questions about who can be an administrator of a probate estate. When someone passes away without a valid will, their estate enters a legal process known as intestate probate. During this process, the court appoints an administrator to manage and distribute the deceased’s assets. In cases where a will exists but does […]

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Oklahoma Charitable Donations in Estate Planning

Verbal Contract

Many Oklahoman’s use charitable donations in Estate Planning to accomplish their goals. Often times when a person is creating an estate plan, they consider the idea of gifting money or assets to charity upon their passing.  About 16M Americans leave some kind of bequest in their last will and testament for charities.  If you would […]

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Creating a Trust For Oklahoma Estate Planning

Creating a Trust For Oklahoma Estate Planning

Creating a Trust for Oklahoma Estate Planning affords you more flexibility in your estate planning options. Creating a trust is often an essential part of your estate planning process.  Estate planning Attorneys use varying types of trusts depending on your specific needs and wants.  This allows you to have control over the assets, may protect […]

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