Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Hampshire

Re: Legal wills

I do not know anything about NH law. In California, if the estate is under $100,000 formal probate does not have to occur. Otherwise, the executor you chose files the Will with the Court, should send notice of the filing and the Will to everyone who has any interest, especially heirs. There is no requirement that the Will be read aloud by anyone. Sometimes the process can be stretched out for years. The assets can be partially distributed before the official closing of the estate. It would be best if you contact the State Bar Association in NH or some legal assistance group to get a brochure as to how things go there.

Re: Legal wills

Your question appears to come from California, but makes reference to New Hampshire. I do not know what assets, if any will be subject to New Hampshire probate. I would need to know if the will is a New Hampshire will and if it will be probated in New Hampshire before providing a substantive response.

I can tell you that in 29 years of practice I have never conducted a reading of the will. In fact, most probate proceedings are handled through the mail between my office and the court. Generally the person named executor is my primary contact and then we mail all pertinent documents to family and those who have an interest in the will (named therein).

In most cases the probate proceedings can be completed and monies disbursed about six months after the appointment of the executor.

I suggest you meet with an attorney to more fully explore the questions you have raised.