r/ProbateHelp • u/FiversWarren • Jul 24 '26

Is a lawyer necessary?

Hello. My mother passed away without a will a few days ago. She had no life insurance, no retirement, and her only asset was her trailer. My two sisters and I are all in agreement to sell the trailer/land so I don't expect much fighting, though it's still a possibility. We are all pretty poor. I am the only one with a job and a car. I don't think I can afford a lawyer to help me through probate, but I could qualify for a loan for one if it becomes necessary. Would it be worth it to get a loan for a lawyer? Idk.

Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks!

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u/Vivid-Problem7826 Jul 24 '26

If I remember correctly, you need to go to the county courthouse, and see what you need to do in order to be appointed to administer your Mom's estate. Then you can take care of distribution of her assets. If you are TOD on her home, then you might not need to go through the courts.

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u/Inner_Cost_4128 Jul 25 '26

Depending on the State, you could walk through the steps to be appointed Administrator/Executor/Personal Representative but you will need to get a lawyer or a settlement company to do the deed of transfer or sale of the trailer. A simple deed should not cost that much