How to Get a Copy of a Last Will & Testament from Someone in Another State
If you need a copy of a will from someone in another state, you'll have to make phone calls and write letters until you get what you want. While you aren't guaranteed a copy of the will unless it's going through probate, most states require probate if a transfer of assets is taking place. Probate is when a copy of the will is filed with the Register of Wills in the county where the deceased died. The will becomes a public record and all creditors and beneficiaries are notified about how the assets will be distributed.
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Instructions
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Contact the lawyer of the deceased and ask to see a copy of the will. If he'll allow it, give him your home address or, if he has an electronic copy, your e-mail.
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Contact the executor of the estate and ask to see a copy of the will. Give him your address and email if he agrees to show you a copy.
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Contact the Register of Wills in the county courthouse of the area where the deceased died. You can find the contact information for the court by using the U.S. Court's Court Locator (see Resources).
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Tell them over the phone that you wish to see a copy of the deceased's will; ask them if it is undergoing probate. Probated wills become a matter of public record.
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Follow the court's instructions for obtaining a copy of the will. Some states will be able to handle the matter over the phone but others will ask that you make a request including your name, address and relationship to the deceased. You may also need to include their date of death, their place of residence, their birthday and the appropriate fee.
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References
Resources
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