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Probate is almost always required in North Dakota. If you have a larger estate, you must go through probate, especially if real estate is involved. Other deciding factors for requiring probate include: A poorly written will.

In an informal probate, the appointed personal representative or executor manages assets, pays any debts, files required tax returns and various court documents, and distributes the estate assets. In a formal probate, the probate judge must approve almost every detail of the estate administration.

In-person hearings are a required part of the formal probate process. Formal probate of an estate is a required court process when the validity of a will needs to be determined, there are objections to using the informal probate process, and when more than 3 years have passed since the date of death.

Establish a living trust: This is a common way for people with high-value estates to avoid probate. With a living trust, the person writing the trust decides which assets to put into the trust and who will act as trustee.

State laws usually require that a will is "in writing" but do not specify that it must be typed. A handwritten will that meets witness requirements is admissible to probate in most states. However, typing a will is preferred because it avoids forcing a judge to interpret the testator's handwriting.

Dying Without a Will in North Dakota If you die intestate in North Dakota, your estate will pass on to your closest living relatives, but to whom depends on who you leave behind – spouses, children, parents, even siblings.

Yes, a DIY will is still a valid will, as long as it meets the legal requirements in your state. For example, if you write your will by hand (known as a “holographic” will), you should still have two witnesses—who saw you sign the will and don't stand to inherit anything from you—sign it.

You can make your own will in North Dakota, using Nolo's Quicken WillMaker & Trust. However, you might want to consult a lawyer in some situations. For example, if you think that your will might be contested or you have especially complicated goals, you should talk with an attorney.

Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship. Adding another person to your assets as a joint owner or “joint tenant with rights of survivorship” will allow your property to pass to them upon your death without going through probate.