There's a clean, original will
A properly executed will, signed by the decedent, witnessed, and notarized correctly. The court can usually accept it without a hearing.
Service · Within Colorado Probate
If available, the fastest way through probate.
Most Colorado probate cases are informal: the court doesn’t hold hearings, doesn’t supervise every step, and lets the personal representative get on with administering the estate. We assist through every step.
Who This Is For
For most Colorado estates, this is the path.
Informal works for the majority of cases. Here’s when it’s appropriate, and when it isn’t.
Everyone in the family agrees
No one is contesting the will, the personal representative, or the proposed distribution. Informal probate works only when there's consensus.
The estate isn't enormous
Informal works for almost any estate that isn't going to face a federal estate tax filing or a contested asset valuation. Most estates qualify.
You want it done quickly
Informal probate can be opened in a week or two and can close sometimes in as little as six months. Formal probate takes much longer.
There's no real estate in another state
Out-of-state property usually means an additional ancillary case. Informal handles the Colorado side; ancillary handles the rest.
Not sure which one you need?
Filing informal when you should have filed formal can cost you weeks. We’ll tell you which is right before you file.
Book a Call How Informal Probate Works
Four steps. One closed estate.
Most informal probates can be finalized within nine to twelve months. After the personal representative publishes notice to creditors, Colorado’s creditor window closes on the later of four months from first publication or one year from the date of death, whichever occurs first.
01
File the application
We prepare the application for informal probate, file the original will with the court, and ask for the personal representative's appointment.
02
Letters Testamentary
The court issues Letters Testamentary (or Letters of Administration if there's no will). These give the Personal Representative legal authority to act for the estate.
03
Administer the estate
Notice to creditors, asset inventory, paying valid claims, filing tax returns, and managing the estate property until distribution.
04
Distribute and close
Distribute to beneficiaries with receipts and releases. File a verified statement of close shortly thereafter.
You May Also Need
Other probate services.
Formal Probate
When informal isn't an option: disputes, missing wills, or judicial determinations needed.
Personal Representative Duties
What you've signed up for if you're the Personal Representative, and how we help you do it.
Settling a Loved One's Estate
The full process, including parts that don't require court.
A free consultation. No obligation.
Ready to file?
A free consultation. We'll review the will, confirm informal is right, and get your case open.