Dealing with the loss of a family member is incredibly tough, and discovering there’s no will can add a layer of uncertainty to an already difficult time. In Arkansas, when someone dies without a will, their estate typically goes through a court-supervised process known as intestate succession, or probate in Arkansas without a will. This means state law, not your loved one’s specific wishes, dictates how their property is divided. You probably have many questions: Who inherits? How are debts handled? What does the court actually do? We understand these concerns, and this article aims to provide straightforward answers, helping you understand the procedures and what to expect as you manage this responsibility.
Key Takeaways
- Understand Intestate Succession First: If there’s no will, Arkansas law has a specific plan for who inherits, so familiarizing yourself with these “intestate succession” rules is your starting point for clarity.
- Prepare for a Structured Probate Process: When a will is missing, the court oversees a defined probate journey, including appointing an administrator and settling the estate, so knowing these stages can help you anticipate what’s next.
- Identify Non-Probate Assets and Seek Guidance: Certain assets like those with beneficiary designations can pass directly to heirs, simplifying things, and remember, professional support can make the entire intestate probate process much smoother.
What Happens When Someone Dies Without a Will in Arkansas?
When a person passes away in Arkansas without leaving a will, their estate enters a legal process known as intestate probate. This simply means the court steps in to oversee how the deceased person’s assets are managed and distributed. Instead of following personal wishes that would have been outlined in a will, the distribution of assets is strictly guided by Arkansas’s intestate succession laws. These laws act like a default plan, creating a specific order of relatives who are legally entitled to inherit. It’s a structured approach, but it might not always align with what the person would have wanted for their loved ones or their property.
The intestate probate process officially kicks off when a surviving family member, or another party with a legal interest in the estate, files a petition with the court. This usually happens in the county where the person who passed away lived. Filing this petition is the first formal step in settling the estate. Relying on these state statutes instead of a personal will can sometimes lead to challenges. You might encounter delays in settling the estate, potential disagreements among family members about who gets what, and even unexpected financial burdens for the heirs. The court’s main job in these situations is to identify the rightful heirs based on the law and ensure all the estate’s affairs are handled correctly.
It’s good to know that Arkansas law does offer a slightly simpler path for smaller estates. If the total value of the estate (after setting aside certain exempt property and homestead allowances) is $100,000 or less, the heirs might be able to use a streamlined process. This allows them to petition for the distribution of assets without going through the full, formal probate administration, which can save both time and money. However, for estates that are larger than this, the standard intestate probate process will apply. Understanding these rules is really important if you find yourself managing an estate without a will. If you have more questions or come across terms you’re unsure about, looking through a Probate FAQ can be a very helpful resource.
What Exactly is Intestate Succession in Arkansas?
It might sound like a pretty formal legal term, but “intestate succession” simply describes what happens when someone passes away in Arkansas without leaving a will. If there’s no will to spell out their wishes, the state doesn’t just let assets go to whomever. Instead, Arkansas has specific intestate succession laws that clearly outline who inherits the deceased person’s property. Think of it as the state’s default plan, ensuring that assets are passed on to surviving family members in a structured and predetermined order. This framework is designed to bring order to what can otherwise be a very confusing and emotional time.
Understanding how these laws work is a really important first step if you find yourself managing an estate where no will was left behind. It can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re also coping with loss, but getting a grasp of the basics can make the path forward much clearer. The good news is you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. When you’re facing this situation, remember that support and resources are available to help you through each part of the process, from understanding the legal jargon to figuring out how property should be distributed. Our team at My Arkansas Probate is here to offer practical estate solutions and provide the guidance you need during this challenging time. We aim to make the process as straightforward as possible for you.
How Arkansas Law Determines Asset Distribution
When someone in Arkansas dies without a will, their estate usually needs to go through a court-supervised process known as intestate probate. It’s during this probate process that the court steps in to apply Arkansas’s specific intestate succession laws. These laws are the rulebook for figuring out how the deceased person’s assets—things like bank accounts, real estate, and personal belongings—are divided among their legal heirs.
The way assets are distributed isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario; it depends heavily on who survives the person who passed away. The law primarily looks at whether there’s a surviving spouse and/or children, as their presence significantly shapes the distribution plan. For instance, the share a surviving spouse is entitled to can change quite a bit depending on whether the deceased also left behind children. If you have general questions about how probate works, our Probate FAQ page is a great starting point for clear answers.
What Rights Do Surviving Spouses and Children Have?
Arkansas law is quite specific when it comes to the inheritance rights of surviving spouses and children if there’s no will. If the person who passed away leaves behind both a spouse and children, the spouse generally receives what’s called a “life estate” in one-third of any real property (like a home or land). This means the spouse can use and benefit from that portion of the property for the rest of their life. Additionally, the spouse gets one-third of the personal property outright. After the spouse’s lifetime, their share of the real property then passes to the children, who also inherit the remaining two-thirds of the personal property right away.
The rules are different if there are no children. If the couple was married for at least three years, the surviving spouse typically inherits the entire estate. However, if they were married for less than three years and there are no children, the spouse inherits 50% of the estate. These details show just how specific the laws are, and why it’s so important to understand how they apply to your unique situation. If you need help interpreting these rules or finding legal support, our attorney information page can connect you with professionals who can assist.
How Does Probate Work When There’s No Will?
When a loved one passes away in Arkansas without leaving a will, their estate typically goes through a court-supervised process known as intestate probate. It might sound a bit intimidating, but understanding the basic steps can make the journey feel much more straightforward. Essentially, because there isn’t a will to outline your loved one’s wishes, Arkansas law steps in to determine how their assets are distributed. The court oversees this entire process to ensure everything is handled correctly and fairly. This includes appointing someone to manage the estate, making sure all debts and taxes are paid, and finally, distributing the remaining property to the legal heirs.
Navigating probate without a will involves several key stages. While it does mean dealing with some legal procedures and paperwork, knowing what to expect can significantly reduce stress during an already challenging time. The goal is to settle the estate in an orderly manner, and we’re here to help you understand each part of that process. Remember, you don’t have to figure this out all on your own; resources are available to guide you.
Getting an Administrator Appointed
The very first step in the intestate probate process is to have an administrator appointed by the court. Think of the administrator as the official manager of your loved one’s estate, legally authorized to handle all its affairs. To get this started, surviving family members or other interested parties usually need to file a petition for probate. This is done in the circuit court of the Arkansas county where your loved one lived. You’ll typically need to include the official death certificate with this petition. Once the court reviews and approves the petition, it officially opens the probate case and appoints an administrator—often a surviving spouse, an adult child, or another close relative—to take charge. This appointment grants them the legal authority to act on behalf of the estate.
Identifying and Valuing the Estate’s Assets
Once an administrator is officially appointed, their next important job is to create a complete inventory of everything the deceased owned and determine its value. This means carefully listing all assets, which could include bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, personal belongings, investments, and anything else of monetary worth. It’s not just about making a list; it’s also about establishing the fair market value of each asset as of the date your loved one passed away. This step is absolutely vital because it gives a clear financial picture of the estate. This information is essential for settling debts, paying any due taxes, and, ultimately, for distributing the remaining assets to the rightful heirs. For more complex assets, like property, getting an accurate valuation is key, and our Estate Solutions can offer support here.
Taking Care of Debts and Taxes
Before any assets can be passed on to the heirs, the administrator has the crucial responsibility of addressing all of the deceased’s outstanding debts and taxes. This involves identifying all legitimate creditors—such as credit card companies, mortgage lenders, or medical facilities—and using the estate’s assets to pay what is owed. The administrator must also file any necessary tax returns for the deceased. This includes a final personal income tax return and, if the estate is large enough to require it, an estate tax return. This stage is a fundamental part of the probate process because heirs are generally only entitled to receive their share of the assets after all these financial obligations have been fully met. You can find answers to many common questions about this part of the process in our Probate FAQ.
Ready to Start Probate? Key Steps Without a Will
When a loved one passes away without a will in Arkansas, you might feel overwhelmed about what to do next. It’s a tough time, and the legal processes can seem complicated, but taking it one step at a time can make it more manageable. The good news is there’s a defined path, and understanding these key steps for initiating probate will help you move forward. This process, known as intestate administration, ensures that your loved one’s estate is handled correctly according to state law.
Filing the Necessary Petition for Administration
Your first practical step is to formally begin the probate process. This involves filing a “petition for administration” with the probate court. You’ll need to do this in the county where your loved one resided at the time of their passing. This petition officially asks the court to recognize the death and open an estate.
A crucial document you’ll need to accompany this petition is the death certificate. You can obtain this certificate from the Arkansas Department of Health. Gathering these documents and correctly filing the petition are foundational to the entire process. If you’re unsure about which forms to use or the specific requirements for the petition, our Probate FAQ page offers more detailed information that can guide you.
Notifying Heirs and Creditors: Who and How
Once the petition is filed, the next important phase is to formally notify all potential heirs and any known creditors of the estate. When someone dies without a will in Arkansas, their estate goes through what’s called intestate probate. This is a court-supervised process where assets are distributed according to Arkansas intestate succession laws. The court’s role is to determine who inherits based on these specific laws.
Proper notification is key because it gives all interested parties a chance to present their claims or interests. Failing to correctly identify and notify heirs can lead to delays, disagreements, and even financial burdens down the line. Similarly, creditors must be given an opportunity to file claims against the estate. This step ensures transparency and fairness in the process. If you need help identifying all legal heirs or managing creditor notifications, reviewing some attorney information might be beneficial.
Obtaining Your Letters of Administration
After you’ve filed the petition and the court has reviewed it, if everything is in order, the court will issue a document called “Letters of Administration.” Think of this as your official permission slip to manage the deceased’s estate. These Letters grant the appointed administrator—which could be you or another qualified individual—the legal authority to act on behalf of the estate.
With these Letters in hand, the administrator can begin the important tasks of gathering the estate’s assets, paying off any legitimate debts and taxes, and eventually distributing the remaining property to the rightful heirs as determined by Arkansas law. This document is essential for interacting with banks, financial institutions, and other entities when settling the estate. Our team can discuss various estate solutions to help you manage these responsibilities effectively once you have the Letters of Administration.
Intestate Probate Myths: Let’s Clear Things Up!
Probate, especially when there isn’t a will, can feel like a maze filled with confusing information. It’s easy to get tripped up by common misunderstandings. Let’s tackle some of these myths head-on so you feel more prepared for the road ahead. Remember, understanding the process is the first step to making it smoother, and we’re here to help you find clarity. If you have specific questions after reading this, our Probate FAQ page is a great resource for further information.
Myth: “All Assets Automatically Go to the Closest Family”
It’s a common belief that if someone passes away without a will, their property just naturally passes to their spouse or children. However, in Arkansas, it’s not quite that simple. When there’s no will, the state’s intestate succession laws kick in. These laws dictate exactly who inherits and in what proportion. This means assets are distributed through a court-supervised process, which might not always align with what you or your loved one would have wanted. Sometimes, this can lead to unexpected distributions or even disagreements among family members, highlighting why understanding these specific rules is so important when you handle an estate.
Myth: “Probate Always Drags on for Years”
The word “probate” often conjures images of a never-ending legal saga. While it’s true that some probate cases can be complex or contested, many intestate probates in Arkansas can be resolved more efficiently. The process involves formally filing a petition with the court to open the estate and having an administrator appointed. From there, the administrator works to identify assets, pay debts, and distribute what’s left. While it’s not an overnight process, it doesn’t automatically mean years of waiting. Having experienced guidance can often help streamline these steps and make the experience less daunting.
Myth: “Small Estates Don’t Need to Go Through Probate”
You might have heard that if an estate is small enough, you can skip probate altogether. While Arkansas does offer a more straightforward path for smaller estates, it’s not quite a complete bypass of any process. If the total value of the estate (excluding certain allowances like homestead and exempt property) is $100,000 or less, heirs can petition the court for distribution without formal, full-blown probate administration. This is known as a “small estate administration.” It’s a simplified procedure, but it still involves a legal process to ensure assets are correctly transferred. Our Estate Solutions can provide more insight into how this works for your specific situation.
Which Assets Can Skip the Probate Process?
When you’re dealing with the loss of a loved one, the thought of probate can add another layer of stress. Probate is essentially the court-supervised process of validating a will (if one exists), gathering the deceased person’s assets, paying off debts and taxes, and finally, distributing the remaining property to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries. It sounds like a lot, and sometimes it can be. However, I want to share some good news: not everything your loved one owned will automatically get caught up in the probate process. In Arkansas, like in many other places, there are specific ways assets can be owned or designated that allow them to pass directly to new owners, sidestepping the formal probate system.
Understanding which assets can bypass probate is incredibly helpful. It can mean a quicker, less expensive, and more private transfer of certain belongings and funds. This knowledge can empower you to identify what needs to go through probate and what doesn’t, potentially simplifying your responsibilities as you settle the estate. Think of it as finding a few express lanes when you were expecting a long queue for everything. If you’re looking at an estate and wondering what the path forward looks like, knowing about these exceptions is a great first step. We often help families at My Arkansas Probate understand these nuances, and our Probate FAQ can also be a useful resource. Let’s explore some of the most common ways assets can avoid the probate journey.
How Joint Ownership with Survivorship Works
One of the most straightforward ways assets can skip probate is through “joint tenancy with right of survivorship.” This is a form of co-ownership where, if one owner passes away, their share automatically goes to the surviving owner(s). For example, if a married couple owns their home as joint tenants with right of survivorship, when one spouse dies, the surviving spouse becomes the sole owner of the home without that property needing to go through probate. The same principle can apply to bank accounts or other property held this way. The surviving co-owner essentially absorbs the deceased owner’s interest directly. This can be a huge relief, as it ensures a smooth and quick transition of ownership for those specific assets.
The Power of Beneficiary Designations
Beneficiary designations are another key tool for keeping assets out of probate. You’re probably familiar with these from things like life insurance policies, retirement accounts (such as 401(k)s, IRAs), and sometimes even bank accounts (often called “Payable on Death” or POD accounts). When the account owner names a specific person (or people, or even a trust) as the beneficiary, those assets pass directly to the named individual(s) upon the owner’s death. The probate court doesn’t need to get involved because the deceased person already specified who should receive that asset. This makes for a much faster transfer, getting funds to loved ones when they might need them most, without the typical probate waiting periods.
Using Living Trusts to Avoid Probate
A living trust is a legal arrangement you can set up during your lifetime to hold your assets. You transfer ownership of your property – like your house, investments, or bank accounts – into the trust, and you typically act as the trustee, managing the assets for your own benefit. The magic happens when you pass away: because the trust owns the assets (not you personally), those assets don’t need to go through probate. Instead, they are distributed to the beneficiaries you named in the trust document, according to your instructions. Many people find that using a living trust is not only faster but can also be more private and potentially less expensive than probate. While it requires some planning to set up, it’s a very effective way to streamline the estate settlement process for your loved ones.
Potential Hurdles When There’s No Will
Going through probate when a loved one hasn’t left a will—a process called intestate probate—can sometimes present unique challenges. While Arkansas law provides a roadmap for how assets should be distributed, the absence of a will means you might encounter a few more twists and turns. Knowing what these potential difficulties are ahead of time can really help you prepare and approach the situation with more confidence. Remember, even when things seem complicated, support and estate solutions are available to guide you.
Dealing with Potential Family Disagreements
One of the most sensitive aspects of handling an estate without a will often involves family relationships. When your loved one’s wishes aren’t formally documented, Arkansas intestate succession laws dictate how assets are divided. “When someone dies without a will in Arkansas… Without clear instructions on how the estate should be divided, the court must determine inheritance based on these laws, which can lead to delays, disagreements, and financial burdens for heirs.” These legal defaults might not align with what everyone expects or what your loved one might have verbally expressed, potentially causing friction. Open communication is key, and sometimes, bringing in a neutral third party or seeking legal advice can help families find a resolution together.
When Unforeseen Heirs or Asset Issues Arise
Occasionally, the process of settling an intestate estate can bring surprises to light. You might learn about distant relatives who are considered legal heirs under Arkansas law, or discover assets and debts that weren’t previously known. “This process can become complicated if there are unforeseen heirs or if there are disputes regarding the assets.” Identifying all rightful heirs and getting a clear, complete picture of the estate’s financial situation is a critical step, though it can add complexity. If you find yourself facing these kinds of unexpected developments, it’s a good idea to consult with professionals who can help you manage these issues correctly and in accordance with state requirements.
Why It Might Take Longer and Cost More
It’s a common concern, and often a reality, that probate without a will can take more time and incur higher expenses. “Without a will, the probate process can be more time-consuming and costly due to the need for court supervision and potential legal disputes among heirs.” The court generally has a more involved role in overseeing intestate estates to ensure that the distribution of assets strictly follows state law. This increased oversight, combined with the possibility of disagreements among heirs that could require legal intervention, can extend the overall timeline and add to the costs. Familiarizing yourself with a probate FAQ can help clarify some of these processes and what to expect.
Intestate Probate: What to Expect for Time and Money
When you’re dealing with the loss of a loved one and discover there’s no will, two of the biggest worries are often how long the probate process will take and what it’s all going to cost. These are completely valid concerns, and while every situation is unique, I want to give you a clearer picture of what you might generally expect here in Arkansas. Knowing what’s ahead can make the journey feel a bit more manageable, especially during such a challenging time.
At My Arkansas Probate, we understand these concerns deeply. We work with families every day to make this process faster and easier, particularly when real estate is involved. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the potential timeline or expenses, remember that resources like our Probate FAQ are available to answer many common questions. You can also always contact us directly for support and to discuss your specific situation. We’re here to help you understand your options and find the best path forward.
How Long Does It Usually Take?
It’s tough to give an exact timeline for intestate probate because it really depends on the specifics of each estate. When someone passes away in Arkansas without a will, their estate typically goes through what’s called intestate probate. This is a court-supervised process designed to ensure assets are distributed correctly according to state law. As one legal guide aptly puts it, “Probate without a will involves several key steps under Arkansas law.” Understanding these steps—like getting an administrator appointed, identifying and valuing all the estate’s assets, taking care of any outstanding debts and taxes, and then finally distributing what remains to the legal heirs—helps you see why it can take some time.
Generally, a straightforward intestate probate case in Arkansas might take anywhere from six months to a year, but it can sometimes extend longer. Factors that can stretch this timeline include the overall size and complexity of the estate, whether there are any disagreements among potential heirs, any difficulties in locating all the assets or identifying all the legal heirs, and even the local court’s own schedule and caseload. The key throughout this period is to be patient and thorough, ensuring every step is correctly handled according to Arkansas law.
Understanding Court Fees and Other Expenses
The costs associated with intestate probate can also vary quite a bit, just like the timeline. You’ll typically encounter court filing fees right at the beginning when you petition to open the probate case. Then there are other potential costs to consider, such as fees for the appointed administrator (if they choose to accept compensation for their role), appraisal fees, which are often necessary to determine the fair market value of assets like real estate or valuable personal property, and sometimes the cost of a probate bond if the court requires one to protect the estate’s assets. If you decide to hire an attorney, which is often very helpful to guide you through the legal complexities, their fees will also be part of the overall expenses. We often see families concerned about these costs, especially if they’re unsure how to effectively manage estate matters and keep expenses in check.
The good news is that Arkansas law does offer a simpler, less expensive path for smaller estates. “Arkansas provides a streamlined probate process for estates that qualify as small. Under Arkansas Code 28-41-101, if the total estate value, excluding exempt property and homestead allowances, does not exceed $100,000, heirs may petition for distribution without formal probate administration.” This “small estate affidavit” process can significantly reduce both the time involved and the overall expense. Of course, looking ahead, “the best way to prevent these challenges is through proper estate planning,” which can help your loved ones avoid these complexities altogether in the future by clearly outlining wishes and potentially keeping assets out of probate.
Where to Find Help and Support for Intestate Probate in Arkansas
Going through probate without a will, which we call intestate probate, can feel like a lot to handle, especially when you’re also coping with the loss of a loved one. But here’s some reassuring news: you absolutely don’t have to figure all of this out by yourself. Arkansas has a network of resources ready to support you. This includes legal professionals who can walk you through the specific laws, court services designed to help you manage the necessary steps, and community support systems. Plus, specialized services like ours right here at My Arkansas Probate can significantly ease the load, particularly when it comes to dealing with real estate and other aspects of the estate.
Knowing where to turn for assistance can truly make a world of difference in how smoothly the probate process unfolds. Whether you find yourself needing someone to manage all the legal details, require help with specific tasks like getting a property appraised, or simply need a clear, straightforward explanation of what to do next, support is available. The most important thing is to identify what you need and then connect with the right people or services. Remember, taking this one step at a time and seeking guidance can transform what seems like a daunting process into something much more manageable.
Exploring Legal Assistance Options
When you’re facing intestate probate, one of the most common first steps is to reach out to a legal professional. An attorney who has solid experience with Arkansas probate law can be an incredibly valuable guide during this time. They can help you clearly understand how intestate succession laws apply to your unique family situation, take charge of preparing and filing all the necessary court documents, and act as the estate’s representative throughout the entire process. This kind of professional help is especially beneficial if there are any disagreements among family members or if the estate includes complex assets or significant debts.
A good probate attorney will carefully explain your responsibilities if you’re appointed as the administrator. They’ll also ensure that all legal requirements are met, which can save you from making costly mistakes or experiencing unnecessary delays. Furthermore, they can provide sound advice on how to handle claims from creditors and how to distribute the estate’s assets correctly according to state law. If you’re looking for legal guidance, we can provide attorney information to help you find a lawyer who specializes in these matters.
Using Court Resources and Guidance Effectively
The Arkansas court system itself provides certain resources and follows a structured process for handling estates when there’s no will. Typically, the first formal step is to file a petition for probate. This is done in the circuit court of the county where the person who passed away lived. This petition usually needs to be submitted along with an official death certificate, which you can obtain from the Arkansas Department of Health. While the court clerks can provide you with information on procedures and the necessary forms, it’s important to remember they can’t offer legal advice.
For estates that are smaller in value, Arkansas law offers a more streamlined approach. If the total value of the estate (after excluding certain allowances and exempt property like the homestead) is $100,000 or less, the heirs might be able to use what’s called a Small Estate Affidavit. This can allow for the distribution of property without going through the full formal probate administration. Understanding these court procedures and specific requirements is key, and you can find plain-language answers to many common questions in our Probate FAQ.
Finding Community Support Services That Can Help
Beyond the legal and court-based resources, there are various community and specialized services that can offer very practical help during the intestate probate process. This is particularly true when an estate includes real estate, as property often needs to be managed, accurately valued, and possibly sold. Services like ours at My Arkansas Probate offer dedicated estate solutions specifically designed to make this part of the process much easier for you. This can even include connecting you with immediate cash buyers for a property if that’s a route you need or want to take.
Sometimes, simply having a better understanding of the overall probate process can significantly reduce stress and uncertainty. There are helpful guides and informational resources available that break down Arkansas probate into more digestible pieces, empowering families to manage estate matters with greater confidence. Additionally, if you’re appointed as the administrator of an estate, you might find yourself needing assistance with tasks like creating an inventory of assets or finding qualified appraisers. Our Free Concierge solution referral service is designed to point you toward trusted local professionals who can assist with these specific needs, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
If my loved one passed away in Arkansas without a will, what’s the very first practical step I should take to manage their estate? Your first main action is to formally start the probate process by filing a petition for administration with the probate court in the county where your loved one lived. You’ll typically need their death certificate for this. This step officially opens the estate and gets the ball rolling for the court to appoint an administrator.
How does Arkansas law actually determine who gets what when there’s no will to follow? When no will exists, Arkansas has specific laws called “intestate succession laws” that act like a default plan. These laws clearly outline a hierarchy of relatives who are entitled to inherit. The distribution depends heavily on who survives, such as a spouse or children, and their relationship to the person who passed. The court follows these rules strictly to divide the property.
Does all of my loved one’s property automatically have to go through the court’s probate process if there wasn’t a will? Not necessarily. Certain types of assets can often pass directly to beneficiaries or co-owners without needing to be part of the formal probate estate. Common examples include assets held in joint tenancy with right of survivorship, life insurance policies with named beneficiaries, retirement accounts with designated beneficiaries, and assets held in a living trust.
I’m worried that probate without a will is going to be an incredibly long and expensive process. Is that always the case? While it’s true that intestate probate can sometimes take longer and involve more court oversight than when there’s a will, it’s not always a drawn-out ordeal. The timeline and costs can vary greatly depending on the estate’s complexity, whether there are any disputes, and how efficiently things are managed. For smaller estates, Arkansas even offers a simplified process that can save time and money.
What kind of support can I find if I’m feeling overwhelmed by managing an estate without a will in Arkansas? You don’t have to go through this alone. There are many resources available, from attorneys specializing in Arkansas probate law who can guide you through every legal step, to court personnel who can explain procedures (though not give legal advice). Our team at My Arkansas Probate also offers specialized estate solutions and can connect you with helpful services, especially if real estate is involved.