Forensic genealogists play an important role in the probate process by researching family trees and locating rightful heirs to estates. They study personal identities and family relationships to identify all eligible beneficiaries, even when just a name is provided. This allows them to ensure assets are passed down correctly. They may also be asked to notify potential heirs who were not named in a will so those individuals can contest it if desired. This due diligence helps executors properly settle estates according to the law.

1. WHAT ROLE DO FORENSIC
GENEALOGISTS PLAY IN
THE PROBATE PROCESS?
Kemp and
Associates

2. INTRODUCTION
 Specializing in forensic genealogy and probate research, Kemp
& Associates works to ensure families can pass down their hard-
earned assets to rightful heirs. Since its founding in 1966, the
team at Kemp and Associates has successfully located
thousands of heirs all around the world.
Often hired by attorneys, trustees, or fiduciaries, forensic
genealogists study personal identity and family relationships to
identify all eligible beneficiaries of an estate. In some cases, the
heir may be identified by name only, with no contact
information, in the decedent’s will. Forensic genealogists have
the necessary experience to research family trees and contact
living relatives until the named beneficiary is located.

3. PROBATE
 In other cases, forensic genealogists may be asked to notify
potential heirs to an estate who are not named in a will. For
instance, the probate process typically requires that potential
heirs be notified of their right to contest, or challenge, the will.
In cases where a decedent has left the estate to a distant
relative, a friend, or a charity, the executor of the estate may
hire a forensic genealogist to complete a search for potential
heirs according to the state’s succession law. Only after this due
diligence search has been completed, and the potential heirs
have had their day in court, can the executor settle the estate
and distribute the assets.