There is a will
A will records wishes for handling an estate, but its existence does not by itself mean probate is unnecessary. The property and documents still matter.
After a death
Probate help in Las Vegas.
After a death, legal questions arrive alongside everything else. Talk with Joshua Dresslove about the estate, the documents you have, and what may need to happen next.
Planning for your own future rather than handling an estate after a death? Explore wills, trusts and powers of attorney.
The short answer
Probate is a legal process for handling certain property and debts after someone dies. Not every asset passes through probate. How property is owned, beneficiary designations and any trust can change the route.
Civil Law Self-Help CenterSomeone has died. Where do I begin?
Start with what you know: where the person lived, whether there is a will or trust, and what property or accounts may exist. You do not need a complete inventory before contacting the office. Joshua can discuss the probate questions raised by your situation.
There is no will
An estate can still need administration. Nevada’s inheritance rules may determine who inherits property that does not pass another way.
There is a house or an account
Ownership and beneficiary information help determine whether an asset belongs in the probate process. A property list is a starting point, not a legal conclusion.
General orientation. Read the supporting sources.
Before a consultation
Bring what you have.
Start with what matters.
- Death certificate, if available
- Any will, trust or existing court papers
- A basic list of property, accounts and known debts
- Where the person lived and where property is located
- Questions you have and any dates listed on notices
Gather documents for your discussion. Do not upload or email sensitive records until the office confirms how to provide them.
Questions before you call
Questions you may have.
Does every estate need probate?
No. Some property can transfer outside probate, such as certain assets held in trust or accounts with an effective beneficiary designation. Whether a particular estate needs a court process depends on the property and circumstances.
Does a will avoid probate?
A will and probate do different jobs. A will can express instructions for an estate, while probate is a process for administering property after death. Having a will does not automatically remove the need for probate.
Can I call if I do not have every document?
Yes. Start with what happened and the documents you know about. You can contact the office before you have gathered everything.
How long will the estate take to settle?
There is no single timeline appropriate for every estate. The assets, debts, available documents, required court steps and any disputes can affect the work. Discuss those facts with Joshua rather than relying on a general completion promise.
Am I looking for probate or estate planning?
Probate concerns handling an estate after a death. Estate planning concerns decisions and documents made during life. If you want to prepare your own will, trust or powers of attorney, visit the estate-planning page.
Your next step is a conversation.
Call or request contact from the office. Your consultation takes place after the appointment is confirmed. If you decide to hire the office, the engagement agreement explains the work and fees. Work starts only after acceptance, completion of the agreement and any required initial payment.
Sources and further reading
This is general information, not legal advice about your circumstances. Calling or sending a request does not create an attorney-client relationship, book an appointment or protect a deadline. Do not send confidential documents until the office gives you an appropriate method.