Do you need to have a will reading to start probate?

You may have been anticipating a will reading to get the probate and estate administration process underway. Maybe you have seen movies where the family all gathers after a loved one’s passing, and someone reads them the will. It can make for a dramatic moment as certain beneficiaries learn what they are going to inherit.

For the sake of storytelling, this does work well in TV shows or movies. But in reality, people do not have will readings in the modern era. Instead, the estate executor simply makes copies of the documentation and then distributes those copies to the named beneficiaries. The executor does not have to read the will to them, but just ensures that they get a copy of the paperwork.

Why have things changed?

Will readings used to happen more often, and a large part of the reason for it was that people could not always read the estate planning documentation. Literacy rates were not as high as they are today. So it was sometimes helpful to have a knowledgeable person read the estate plan and inform the beneficiaries of what it said.

Today, though, this is largely unnecessary. Everyone can simply read their own copy of the documentation. This can help the process go more smoothly, and all the beneficiaries still get the details they need about assets that they are going to inherit, how to address jointly owned assets – such as two siblings who inherit their parents’ home – and things of this nature. Having documentation in hand can also be helpful if there are any disputes, such as a will challenge from one of the beneficiaries.

Navigating the probate process

Going through probate and estate administration can be complex, especially if there are disputes or challenges. Those involved need to know what legal options they have at this time.