How can I get copy of my late father’s Will or any other papers regarding this matter?
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How can I get copy of my late father’s Will or any other papers regarding this matter?
Asked on December 1, 2015 under Estate Planning, New York
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
If the Will has not yet been probated, then anyone who is an immediate family member of the deceased, whether or not they are listed in the Will, is legally entitled to view a copy. The same is true for anyone who is listed in the Will as a beneficiary.
If the Will has already been probated, then anyone is entitled to a copy since it now a matter of public record.
G.J., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
If your late father's Will has been probated, it is has become public court records. You can call the court it has been probated in and they will give you the procedure to obtaining a copy of the Will. Wills are usually probated in the county the person lived or has property in. If it has not been probated, you can ask the person in possession to see it if you are a named beneficiary. If they will not let you, you must force the person to probate the Will through a legal action filed with the court.
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