COMMON QUESTIONS FROM HEIRS
Why have I been contacted?
You have been contacted because our research has led us to you. Based on our findings, we believe you may be entitled to receive funds from a pending estate matter to which you are completely unaware.
How did Landex Research get involved in this particular estate matter?
Typically our cases originate in one of three ways:
- We are contacted by an attorney or trust officer who has requested our assistance in completing an heirship.
- We monitor probate estates at courthouses and search for new estate matters which appear to have an incomplete heirship.
- We are contacted by a correspondent who requests our assistance in utilizing local resources to help locate certain individuals.
How can I be certain that pursuing this inheritance will justify my time and effort?
While the amount inherited varies widely from case to case, our office does not engage in expensive research to locate you unless we believe it is worthwhile for you to receive an inheritance and for us to receive a fee.
Once you sign our agreement, our office does all of the work for you. The entire process requires little work on your part.
How do I know this offer is legitimate and not simply a scam?
We fully understand most people approach our letter with a certain amount of skepticism. Landex Research receives its fees only after services have been performed and our clients have received a financial benefit.
During the past 40 years, our company has developed an excellent reputation among the legal community. We welcome your inquiries to the Better Business Bureau, the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce and various attorneys with whom we have worked. We are confident our record speaks for itself.
Wouldn't it make more sense for the estate to pay for research expenses instead of me?
It is possible the attorney for the estate is unaware that additional heirs exist. Without our reviewing files, many heirs would be passed up completely on their legal entitlement.
If the estate incurs research expenses, then known heirs would actually be paying to locate unknown heirs. Our fee is paid by the individuals who benefit the most from our services.
How long does the probate process take?
Usually it takes one to two years from the time we first contact you. While court backlogs vary, our experienced legal advisors work hard to conclude cases as quickly and easily as possible.
Who determines my appropriate share of the estate?
Your share is determined by the probate court based on the laws of descent and distribution in the locale in which the matter is handled.
Can I be held liable for the decedent's debts?
Absolutely not. The decedent's debts are deducted from the assets of the estate prior to distribution. The worst possible scenario is that the estate would be insolvent, and you would inherit nothing.
Am I responsible for estate taxes?
No. Typically all estate taxes, if any, are paid by the estate prior to distribution. The funds you receive are usually free and clear of any tax liabilities.
If I do not inherit from this matter, am I under any financial obligation to Landex Research for locating me?
No. Landex Research assumes all of the risk. If it turns out there are no funds for you, we simply advise you of such and close our file.
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