Gregory Christopher Poulos

Greg counsels clients on the best strategies for accomplishing their estate planning and business goals. Greg starts by “Putting His Clients at Legal Ease” so that they understand the legal issues and risks they face. He does this so his client understand their circumstances and can make better informed choices to protect their assets and their loved ones. With 30+ years experience, Greg has counseled hundreds of clients, guiding them through their legal and business issues.

Brooklyn Law School

J.D. | Law

New York University

B.A. | Economics; Philosophy

New York University

MBA | Accounting

New York State Bar  # 1909290

Member

1983 - Current

Arizona

Since 2007

New York

Since 1983

• Free Consultation
• Credit Cards Accepted

Q. Since my dad died does my mom get my paternal grandpa’s inheritance?

March 31, 2024

A: In Arizona, an inheritance is generally considered to be separate property when received. If that applies your father's inheritance did not become community property. Therefore your mother is not entitled to the inheritance. However, in Arizona, spouses have significant inheritance rights and usually have a right to at least partial inheritance. Arizona has a statutory homestead allowance that protects spousal inheritance rights. No matter what the trust states she is entitled to a minimum.

The executor needs to consult with an estate or probate attorney regarding this issue.

Q. Father passed away, his name forged on quitclaim, notary found to not be diligent and got commission revoked.

March 21, 2024

A: I agree with attorney Whitehurst that you must act immediately to hire an attorney. While you may certainly consult with a real estate litigation attorney I would suggest that you consider a consultation with a probate attorney that handles probate litigation. While very similar since it affects real property that probably should be administered in the probate court that would probably be more efficient.

But either way do this immediately.

Q. If a decedent did not leave a will and spouse receives a check in the decedents name, does the spouse go Thru probate

May 6, 2023

A: There is not enough information in your questions to provide a full answer. It may depend upon the amount of the check and the possible beneficiaries. If the amount of the check is below the amount required for filing probate in Arizona you may be able to contact the issuer and have them re-issue the check when you present them will the proper affidavit for the distribution of personal property. If the amount of the check is too high, a probate may be necessary. Again the check in that case would have to be reissued in the name of the estate. At this point, you cannot do anything with that check.