How to Settle an Estate in Rhode Island Without a Lawyer
A step-by-step breakdown of settling a Rhode Island estate yourself — which tasks you can handle, which require professional help, and how to avoid the traps in RI's 39-court system.
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All articles about When Someone Dies in Rhode Island — Estate Settlement Guide.
Best Estate Settlement Guide for Small Estates Under $15,000 in Rhode Island
Rhode Island's small estate process has strict rules — $15,000 cap, zero real estate, 30-day wait. Here's the best guide for navigating voluntary administration without a lawyer.
Alternatives to Hiring a Probate Attorney in Rhode Island
Five alternatives to full-service probate attorneys in Rhode Island — from free government forms to state-specific guides to limited-scope legal help. What each option covers and where it falls short.
Transfer on Death Deed Rhode Island: Why It Doesn't Exist and What to Do Instead
Rhode Island does not allow transfer-on-death deeds for real estate. Here are the actual alternatives RI homeowners use to pass property without probate.
Rhode Island Small Estate Affidavit: The $15,000 Rule That Bypasses Probate
Rhode Island's small estate process lets you skip probate if intangible personal property is $15,000 or less and there's no real estate. Here's exactly how it works.
Rhode Island Land Evidence Records: How Real Estate Transfers After Death
Rhode Island real estate doesn't transfer through a county recorder—it goes through 39 municipal land evidence offices. Here's how to clear title and record a deed after death.
Rhode Island Will Requirements, Revocable Trusts, and Estate Planning Basics
Rhode Island wills must be signed by 2 witnesses. But intestate law here is uniquely restrictive—most RI families also need a trust. Here's why.
Rhode Island Probate Court: Which Court Handles the Estate and What Forms You Need
Rhode Island has 39 municipal probate courts—not county courts. Here's how to find the right one, what forms to file, and what fees to expect.
Rhode Island Inheritance Laws: Who Inherits When There's No Will
Rhode Island's intestate succession rules are unique—surviving spouses often get a life estate, not full ownership. Here's who inherits what under RI law.
Rhode Island Estate Tax: Rates, Exemptions, and the Lien Every Executor Must Know
Rhode Island estate tax applies to estates over $1,838,056 in 2026. But every estate with real property must still file Form RI-706 to clear the automatic lien.
Rhode Island Death Certificate: How to Order, Costs, and How Many You Need
Rhode Island death certificates cost $22 in person, $25 by mail. Order 10–15 certified copies. Here's who issues them, who can request them, and where each one goes.