Probate genealogists are experts at researching family history to establish connections and find the beneficiaries that are entitled to inherit money when an individual passes away. Families can be complex, and documents are an essential part of the process of finding heirs. This article discusses some of the important documents probate genealogists use as part of their job roles.
If the deceased has left a will, the first document the probate genealogist will examine is the will. In many cases where the will is clear and valid, a probate genealogist won’t be required as the will states who is entitled to the money and belongings left by the deceased. However, in some cases, documents aren’t clear, and more investigation is needed to locate beneficiaries. For example, suppose a will mentions that all grandchildren should be given a proportionate share of the estate. In that case, a probate genealogist may need to search out for any missing grandchildren to ensure the wishes of the deceased are met. The above is just one example of a simple case; wills may be complex, which is why probate genealogists study them carefully and are familiar with the laws surrounding them.
Both birth and marriage certificates are important as part of the investigation process undertaken by probate genealogists. They can give vital information which can help form a family tree. Birth certificates usually name the mother and father of the child so any potential beneficiaries can be checked and verified using this documentation. In addition, marriage certificates can help probate genealogists identify the proper beneficiaries of an estate. However, once a marriage has formally ended in a divorce, the ex-husband or ex-wife won’t be entitled to inherit any money. This makes divorce records just as important as marriage and birth certificates for probate genealogists investigating complex cases.
When dividing up a significant estate, probate genealogists need a clear picture of the land and property the deceased owned. This can be complex if parts have been sold off in the past or gifted to other people. Property and land records should provide all of the information probate genealogists need for working out how to divide the estate between the beneficiaries.
If the deceased has family overseas, it can be more challenging for probate; records can be lost, which can make it difficult to locate people. Letters, photos and belongings of the deceased can make this whole process quicker and simpler, especially if they include contact details that allow probate genealogists to verify and locate missing beneficiaries. A probate genealogist will often ask to see any correspondence that might be helpful when dealing with a specific case.
Another vital source of information for probate genealogists is census records; these provide information about where ancestors lived, their occupations and other members of the household. Probate genealogists often rely on census records to fill in gaps in family trees where other records are missing. In fact, some people consider them one of the most important documents available to probate genealogists. Census records are taken every ten years; the earliest census was taken between 1801 and 1831; this provided less detailed information, only counting the number of people that were in the area at that specific time. Every household is required by law to complete the census, giving details of everyone that lives in the house on census day. If the census isn’t filled in correctly or is ignored completely, then you could receive fines that need to be paid.
Probate genealogists use a variety of documents to research family history and find the beneficiaries of an estate. These documents include wills, birth and marriage certificates, property and land records, letters, photos, and belongings of the deceased, and census records. Each document can provide valuable information that helps probate genealogists piece together a family tree and identify the rightful heirs.
By carefully examining these documents, probate genealogists can ensure that the wishes of the deceased are carried out and that the estate is distributed fairly to the beneficiaries. This is an important job that helps protect families' rights and ensure that they receive the inheritance they are entitled to.