Probate, a court process for settling an estate, can be lengthy and costly for families after a loved one's death. Advance planning can help ensure that assets like homes, cars, and savings are transferred directly to family members without court involvement.

A financial advisor suggests using legal tools to transfer property automatically upon death, such as revocable living trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint ownership.

Further details on avoiding probate are available, including information on how probate laws vary by location, which can affect property ownership in multiple areas.