Losing a loved one is difficult enough without having to deal with the slow, public process of probate. Probate is the court-supervised process of distributing a deceased person’s estate according to their will or state law. It can take over a year in some cases, and probate records become public documents that anyone can access.
When Does an Estate Go to Probate in North Carolina?
What Assets Get to Skip Probate in North Carolina?
- Life insurance proceeds and retirement accounts with named beneficiaries
- Bank accounts owned jointly with rights of survivorship
- Real estate titled in joint tenancy with rights of survivorship
- Assets placed in a revocable living trust during your lifetime
- Investments and bank accounts that designate transfer-on-death beneficiaries
- Real estate is transferred through a transfer-on-death deed
How to Avoid Probate in North Carolina
Create A Revocable Living Trust
Name Beneficiaries For Accounts And Assets
Own Property Jointly
Make Lifetime Gifts
Use Transfer-On-Death Deeds
Take Control with an Estate Plan
At Cline Donaldson PLLC, our experienced estate planning attorneys are ready to help craft a personalized plan that meets your needs and goals. Contact us today if you have any questions or need guidance on avoiding probate through proper planning. We offer a free initial consultation at your convenience.

About the Author
Scott Donaldson
As one of the founders of Cline Donaldson PLLC, Scott Donaldson leverages his background in law enforcement to provide exceptional representation across core practice areas, including personal injury law and estate planning. Before founding his Wilmington-based firm in 2023, Mr. Donaldson honed his understanding of the law as a Lieutenant in the esteemed New York City Sheriff’s Office.
He subsequently graduated cum laude from Campbell University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law, earning the Law School Book Award for demonstrating exceptional mastery of complex legal subjects. With an extensive legal background, Mr. Donaldson brings authoritative experience and insight when navigating each client case. He remains dedicated to upholding the highest legal standards and achieving optimal outcomes for all he represents.