Estate Dispute Resolution Steps

Summary

Beneficiaries in Washington can file a petition with the probate court to address concerns about a personal representatives actions, such as withholding information or selling property below market value. The petition should outline concerns, request an accounting, and seek to stop the sale. It must be filed with the Pierce County Superior Court Probate Division, and all interested parties should be notified. Beneficiaries can also request the removal of a personal representative if they are not acting in the estates best interest. Legal advice may be beneficial for drafting and filing the petition.

Full Conversation

Im in pierce county wa. Im beneficiary of an estate in probate and i have issues with the personal representative of the estate. He is with holdinh information. He is selling the house for way cheaper then it is worth. I need to know how to hold him.accountabke and how can i stop the sale of the house if i disagee with the price
Hi ****,
In Washington, you can take the following steps to address your concerns:
- File a Petition: You can file a petition with the probate court requesting an accounting of the estate and to stop the sale of the house.
- Request Removal: If the personal representative is not acting in the best interest of the estate, you can request their removal.
Would you like more details on how to file a petition or need assistance in another area?
Details how file petition
To file a petition in Pierce County, WA:
- Draft the Petition: Outline your concerns and requests (e.g., accounting of the estate, stopping the sale of the house).
- File: Submit the petition to the Pierce County Superior Court Probate Division.
- Serve Notice: Ensure all interested parties, including the personal representative, are notified.
Would you like more specific guidance on drafting the petition?
Please help draft a petition
Sure, ****! Here's a draft of your petition:
---
Pierce County Superior Court Probate Division
In the Matter of the Estate of [Decedent’s Name], Deceased
Case No. [Case Number]
Petition for Accounting and to Stop Sale of Real Property
Petitioner: **** [Last Name], Beneficiary
*. Introduction:
- I, **** [Last Name], am a beneficiary of the estate of [Decedent’s Name], currently in probate.

*. Concerns:
- The personal representative, [Representative’s Name], has been withholding information regarding the estate.
- The personal representative is selling the house for significantly less than its market value.
*. Requests:
- I request a full and transparent accounting of the estate.
- I request the court issue an order to stop the sale of the house until a fair market value can be established.
*. Legal Basis:
- Under Washington State probate laws, beneficiaries have the right to an accounting and to ensure the estate is handled in the best interest of all parties involved.
*. Conclusion:
- I respectfully request the court to grant my petition for an accounting and to stopthe sale of the house, and any other relief as deemed appropriate by the court.
Date: [Date]
Signature: _______________________
**** [Last Name]
Beneficiary of the Estate
---
Would you like any additional information or assistance with the filing process?