Probate

[Ericme]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Virginia

I'm unclear on the probate law regarding an estate left to surviving family (siblings) by a legal will. What is the process to assuming ownership of real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, ect ?

 

[anteater]

The will is submitted for probate and the person nominated as executor in the will petitions the court for appointment. The court accepts the will as valid - admits it to probate. If there are no objections, the nominated executor is appointed and the court issues letters testamentary to the executor. The executor then has the legal authority to deal with the deceased's affairs and carry out the provisions of the will.

You can find several overviews by doing a search with terms like: Virginia probate process

 

[nextwife]

Additionally, some assets may be set up so that they pass directly to either a co owner or a beneficiary, without passing through probate. The will would not control distribution of such assets.