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What is Probate? Why & How to Avoid It

Posted by Seton McAndrews | CFP®, Vice President Investments

June 22, 2017

Back in mid-May, I wrote an estate planning article about the late artist and global music phenomenon, Prince. The objective of the piece, amongst other things, was to bring to light the problems, expenses, and hardships that can result when a high net worth individual does not adequately prepare an estate plan. In Prince’s case, he did not even have a last will. 

What followed in Prince’s case was nothing short of troubling. More than 45 people came forward to the court claiming to be related to Prince as a spouse, child, sibling, or some other relative. Prince’s estate then spent over a year in probate court, and at the end of the day it has been reported that his $200 million estate is expected to be cut in half by federal and estate taxes. Can you imagine paying $100 million in taxes? It’s unfathomable!

In all likelihood, this outcome could have largely been avoided with some sound financial and legal advice during Prince’s lifetime.

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Estate Planning Avoiding Probate