Summary probate is a simplified version of the normal [Probate](/glossary/probate) process, used to settle the affairs of a deceased person's [Estate](/glossary/estate) when its value falls below a certain threshold specified by state law. 

The purpose of summary probate is to provide a faster, cheaper, and less complex method for paying the [Debts](/glossary/debt) and distributing the [Assets](/glossary/assets) of a deceased person's estate as compared to the traditional probate process.

## The specific rules and requirements for summary probate vary by state, but common characteristics of small estate probate include:

**Value Threshold:** To qualify for summary probate, the total value of the deceased person's assets typically must be below a specific threshold set by the state's probate laws. The threshold can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another.

**Eligibility:** Not all estates are eligible for summary probate. It is generally reserved for cases with relatively small and uncomplicated estates. The eligibility criteria may vary depending on the jurisdiction and may not only be tied to the value of the estate. 

**Simplicity and Speed:** summary probate is designed to be a more streamlined and expedited process compared to regular probate. It is intended for cases where the estate is relatively straightforward and of small value.

**Court Oversight:** Although summary probate is less "formal" than regular probate, it still requires [Probate Court](/glossary/probate-court) oversight and an [Executor](/glossary/executor) or [Administrator](/glossary/administrator) may still be required to help manage the process. 

**Limited Documentation:** In summary probate, the required documentation and paperwork are typically simplified and reduced compared to regular probate. This is to facilitate a quicker resolution of the estate.

**Creditor Claims:** During summary probate, there is a specific period for [Creditors](/glossary/creditors) to make claims against the estate. After the deadline passes, the estate's assets can be distributed to beneficiaries without further creditor claims.

The laws and regulations that govern summary probate vary by location, and the rules can be complex. As such, it's advisable to consult with an [Estate Attorney](/glossary/estate-attorney) or [Probate Attorney](/glossary/probate-attorney) for guidance. 

Also known as <a href="/glossary/small-estate-probate">Small Estate Probate</a>.

A title is a legal document that refers to the ownership rights a person or entity holds in a property or other type of [Asset](/glossary/assets). Titles establish the lawful right for the  owner to possess, use or transfer the asset. 

These types of assets can include real estate property, vehicles, other types of personal property, or financial accounts.

## After a death, titles are important in many ways: 

**Probate and Title Transfer:** A deceased person's assets are typically transferred to their [Heirs](/glossary/heir) or [Beneficiaries](/glossary/beneficiaries) according to their details outlined in their [Will](/glossary/will) (if they have one), or the according to state law if they did not. This transfer occurs during the [Probate](/glossary/probate) process and the titles of these assets are officially transferred from the deceased's name to beneficiaries' names.

**Automatic Transfer:** In some cases, certain assets may be able to bypass probate entirely due to the structure of their ownership titles. For example, assets held jointly, known as [Joint Tenancy](/glossary/joint-tenancy), or assets with designated beneficiaries (e.g., life insurance policies, retirement accounts), transfer directly to the surviving co-owner or beneficiaries outside of probate.

**Real Estate:** Real estate ownership is typically represented by a [Deed](/glossary/deed) which specifies the legal owner's title. After a death, a deed is used as the legal document to transfer titles from the deceased to another person. This process may require probate, depending on state law, or the property ownership structure (for example, if the property was owned jointly).

**Vehicles and Personal Property:** Similar to real estate, vehicles and personal property also have titles that establish ownership. After the owner's death, the transfer of these titles may be occur during probate or handled through procedures established by state laws.

**Account and Financial Titles:** Financial assets, such as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds, may have account titles or ownership designations. After a death, the titles of these financial assets may need to be updated to reflect the new owner.

The concept of title is crucial for identifying ownership, transferring assets, and ensuring that assets are distributed according to the deceased person's wishes or applicable state law. 

During probate, it's helpful to work with an [Estate Attorney](/glossary/estate-attorney) or [Probate Attorney](/glossary/probate-attorney) to ensure that titles are appropriately managed and that assets are transferred to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries.

A title company is a specialized firm that helps manage the transfer of real estate property after the death of an owner. 

They help research real estate [Titles](/glossary/title) to verify that the deceased owned the property, identify any existing [Liens](/glossary/lien), and ensure that it's clear for transfer to [Surviving Family](/glossary/surviving-family) members, [Heirs](/glossary/heir) or other [Beneficiaries](/glossary/beneficiaries).

Title companies also provide insurance to protect against unforeseen issues when [Administering](/glossary/administer-the-estate) the deceased's [Estate](/glossary/estate). 

## Title companies help after the death of a property owner in a number of ways including: 

**Title Search and Verification:** They conduct a comprehensive title search to verify the legal ownership of the property within the deceased's [Estate](/glossary/estate). This is a critical step to confirm the title's legitimacy and identify any potential issues that need to be addressed during the [Probate](/glossary/probate) process.

**Title Insurance:** Title companies may offer insurance policies that protect the new owners (heirs or beneficiaries) from any unforeseen claims or disputes related to the property's ownership or title that may arise during or after the probate proceedings.

**Facilitating Property Transfers:** They assists in the smooth transfer of property ownership by preparing the necessary legal documents, such as [Deeds](/glossary/deed) or [Affidavits](/glossary/affidavit), to formally transfer the property to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries as determined by probate proceedings and in accordance with the wishes outlined in the deceased's [Last Will and Testament](/glossary/will).

**Resolution of Title Issues:** They address any title issues or discrepancies that may arise during the [Estate Settlement](/glossary/settle-the-estate) process, working to resolve them to ensure a clear and marketable title for the property.

**Collaboration with Probate Attorneys:** Works closely with [Real Estate Attorneys](/glossary/real-estate-attorney), [Estate Attorneys](/glossary/estate-attorney), and [Probate Attorneys](/glossary/probate-attorney) to ensure that property-related legal aspects are handled correctly and in compliance with state laws and regulations.

**Closing Services:** They coordinate the closing of real estate transactions, facilitating the signing of documents and the exchange of funds, ultimately completing the property transfer in accordance with the probate orders.

A Christian funeral service will typically be held in a church or a funeral home and is led by a pastor.

The service will usually start and end with a prayer. Readings from the Bible as well as the singing of hymns may occur throughout the ceremony. 

Friends and family can usually be invited to speak, but that will depend on the denomination and traditions of the church.

The funeral is usually followed by a luncheon or meal for funeral attendees.

Other ceremonies might be required depending on the denomination and traditions of the church. 


A Catholic funeral service usually consists of three parts: 
- Vigil service
- Funeral or memorial mass
- Graveside service

The Catholic vigil service, also called a wake, typically occurs with the body or cremated remains present and is led by a priest or deacon.

The vigil is when family and friends can give eulogies and hold a memorial for the deceased.

After the vigil, a funeral or memorial mass is held at a church and led by a priest. The mass will be a funeral mass if the body or cremated remains are present; otherwise it will be a memorial mass.

If the deceased will be buried, a graveside service led by a priest or deacon can be held. If the deceased will be cremated, a service at the columbarium – the structure for storing cremated remains – can occur.

A Jewish funeral service is led by a rabbi and usually occurs very quickly after a death.

Jewish tradition requires that a body be buried within 24 hours of death. A funeral service may be delayed to accommodate people who will need to travel. 

A Jewish funeral home will be able to help you navigate the customs and traditions around a Jewish funeral. 

Prior to burial, the body is washed thoroughly and prayed over from death until burial. The body is buried in a simple white shroud in a simple wood casket made with no metal parts. 

A Jewish cemetery may have rules against burying individuals with tattoos and piercings.

If the deceased will be cremated, you should inform the rabbi and/or funeral home, as it may affect the funeral service. Embalming is also not considered to be in line with Jewish tradition. 

Following the burial, the deceased's immediate relatives usually host a Jewish mourning ritual known as a shiva. The shiva is a period of mourning that traditionally lasts seven days but can be shorter. During this time, friends and family will visit to give condolences. Food and drink are commonly gifted to the deceased's immediate family.

A tombstone is not placed at a Jewish burial. Instead, a mourning period called a Kaddish is usually observed for 11 months for family members, though it may be 30 days for some relatives. Following the Kaddish period, but no later than one year later, a grave marker is revealed at an unveiling. 


An Islamic funeral is usually held at a Mosque and involves a specific set of funeral prayers (Salat al-Janazah) led by an Imam. 

Islamic tradition requires that the deceased's remains are buried within 24 hours of passing, though this can be delayed if circumstances require. 

Because the funeral prayers are required to be performed, an Islamic funeral service is attended by the deceased's entire male congregation. There may be a separate section for women to attend. 

Before burial, the deceased's remains are usually washed and wrapped in a white shroud. The exact method of burial will vary based on local customs, but typically the deceased's remains will be buried on their right side and facing Mecca. 

After the funeral, a 40-day period of mourning for the deceased's family begins though widows observe a longer mourning period of four lunar months and 10 days.

It is common for friends and family to bring food to the bereaved family in the first few days of the mourning period. 




Buddhist funeral customs vary depending on the family as well as the Buddhist tradition followed. 

A Buddhist funeral service can take place at a home or a place of worship and may be led by a monk or a member of the deceased's family/community.

Often, Buddhist funerals center around an altar that prominently features a picture of the deceased as well as pictures or statues of Buddha. Other photos or objects to honor the deceased may form part of the altar, in addition to flowers and food. 

Buddhist funeral prayers known as sutras are recited at the funeral. Other Buddhist customs include chanting, ringing bells, burning incense, and bringing offerings to the altar for the deceased. A sermon is usually given as well. 

A reception is usually held after the funeral, and other mourning services may be held throughout the 100-day period of mourning that follows the death. Memorial services are common on the third, seventh, 49th and 100th day of the mourning period. Celebrations are generally avoided during this period. 

Hindu funeral services usually have three separate parts:

- A vigil at the family's home immediately following the death
- A cremation ceremony called a "mukhagni"
- Post-cremation memorial events

A vigil is held by the deceased's immediate family at their home, and visitors come to give their condolences. 

The body is washed by the deceased's family (Hindu funeral homes will be able to accommodate this custom). If there is a viewing, the deceased is placed in a simple coffin wearing a garland of flowers and traditional markings on the forehead (in ash for a man or turmeric for a woman).

White is commonly worn by guests at a Hindu funeral. The funeral is led by the deceased's family, usually their eldest male relative.

Hindu traditions favor cremation within 24 hours of the death. The deceased's eldest male relative plays a prominent role in the cremation, including transporting the remains to the crematorium and receiving and scattering the ashes. 

Traditionally, the deceased's ashes are scattered in the Ganges. A company can be hired to perform this for Hindus living outside of India.

Following the cremation, a 13-day period of mourning begins. The deceased's family will perform mourning rituals to assist the deceased's soul. Visitors will come to pay condolences. The family holds another memorial ceremony at the one-year anniversary of the death, called sraddha. 

Eastern Orthodox funeral customs usually involve a vigil at home, a funeral service at a church, and a graveside service. All parts are led by a priest. Cremation is prohibited in Eastern Orthodox Christianity and an Orthodox priest will not lead a funeral service for a cremated individual.

Immediately following a death, a priest will lead a prayer for the release of the soul. The body is then prepared for burial by the family with a priest present. An Orthodox Christian funeral home will be able to accommodate this custom.

After the family washes and clothes the body, the priest will prepare the casket by sprinkling holy water on it before the body is placed inside. The priest leads a vigil for the deceased until the body is transported to the church for the funeral service at the church.

The vigil consists of special funeral prayers called panikhidas. These funeral prayers are led by the priest during the vigil. The deceased's family may read from the Book of Psalms during the vigil. 

Following the vigil, the body is transported to the church where a priest leads a funeral service. The body is displayed at this funeral service with candles, a crown or wreath, and an icon of Christ. After the funeral service, mourners are given a chance to approach the casket to say goodbye.

If there is a graveside burial service, it is usually short and performed by the priest. If it is not an Orthodox cemetery, the priest will bless the grave.

The funeral is followed by a special meal, where fish is usually served. 

The funeral is followed by a mourning period of 40 days, with additional memorial ceremonies being held on the third, ninth, and 40th days following the death.


 


Funeral services held according to Jehovah's Witness custom are simple ceremonies led by an elder in the deceased's congregation.

Jehovah's Witness customs emphasize modesty, so funeral services tend to be brief. 

Funeral or memorial services are held in funeral homes or a house of worship known as a Kingdom Hall. The ceremony is led by an elder who knew the deceased and may include a prayer, singing, and/or a Bible reading. 

Family and friends of the deceased might not be encouraged to speak at the funeral service. 

A vigil is not held before the funeral and there is no prescribed mourning period or memorial custom. Burial and cremation are both accepted in Jehovah's Witness customs.

A Latter-Day Saints funeral service is led by the bishop of the deceased's congregation at a church, funeral home or cemetery. It is usually held within a week of the death and not on a Sunday.

Before the funeral, a viewing may be held. This may or may not be an open-casket viewing. The final 15 minutes of the viewing are usually private for the immediate family. 

The funeral ceremony consists of prayer, readings from the Book of Mormon, and hymns. Family and friends may be allowed to give eulogies. 

The graveside ceremony is usually private and only for the family.

Burial is preferred over cremation. If the deceased took part in an endowment ceremony, they should be buried in their temple garments. 

The church's women's organization usually provides a meal following the funeral. "Funeral potatoes" are commonly served at Latter-Day Saints funerals.

If the deceased was a member of another faith, ask a member of the deceased's worship group for assistance and advice for planning their funeral. 

While religious customs and traditions have historically guided the end-of-life process, there are many options for atheists or non-denominational families who prefer to not include religion included in their services. 

![Guides_Icon.svg](https://res.cloudinary.com/funeralchecklist/image/upload/v1651602606/Guides_Icon_08a6c1692b.svg)**Read More**
For more information about planning a funeral without religious traditions, see the ["Funeral planning" section of the Guide](/guides/funeral-planning/funeral-products).

Regardless of whether the deceased was a religious person, final disposition and funeral services are often guided by religious customs and traditions. 

These historical practices can help a devout person fulfill a religious obligation, and help a secular person with a structure and processes without being overtly religious. 

As a result, it's important to review the deceased's wishes. If instructions have been left, they would be found in their last will and testament. 

If instructions are not listed in their will, they may be implied in a funeral trust, because of the arrangement with a particular funeral services provider (the provider may have a religious affiliation). 

If no instructions have been left, the surviving family will need to make these decisions. It's best to speak honestly and freely to identify the best approach, as there is no law which states who can or cannot make this decision. 

To help decide what religious traditions and customs are best suited for the deceased, review the funeral traditions of religious groups below. 


Final disposition refers to the final resting place of a deceased person's remains.

Most often chosen are burial or cremation, though there are many other options available. 

![Lightbulb_Icon.svg](https://res.cloudinary.com/funeralchecklist/image/upload/v1651602606/Lightbulb_Icon_11fd0e0491.svg)**Good to Know**
When making this decision, it's important to think about family traditions or religious customs because they may impact the types of: 
- Funeral industry professionals who need to be hired
- Products and services that need to be purchased
- Events that may need to be organized

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Funeral traditions of different religions

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