In cases in which probate is required, the executor of the estate or the next of kin cannot take the actions necessary to administer the estate without the authority granted by the probate court. Probate is a complicated process that requires executors to prepare forms, meet deadlines, keep records, generate reports, submit filings to the court, and serve notices to creditors, heirs and local newspapers.

Choosing a trustee is, perhaps, the most difficult decision you must make when completing an estate plan. Do you choose a family member or friend to be trustee? Why would you want a professional trustee? What should I look for in a trustee? What are the advantages of choosing a professional trustee?

A minority shareholder can hold some power, but they do not hold full majority control as they, individually, own less than half of the company. Conversely, a majority shareholder is one who does hold full control over a company by owning the majority of the company’s shares. Because a majority shareholder owns over half the company, this gives him or her power over the company’s decisions, and limits the power held by the minority shareholders. When a company decision needs to be voted on by shareholders, the majority shareholder will be the one who can essentially make or break the decision as they have the most power and control.