United States Probate Limitations

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Limitations of a will
When analyzing a will record, be aware of the following potential problems:


 * The spouse mentioned in the will may not be the mother of the children mentioned in the will
 * The will may omit a deceased child
 * The will may omit a child who already received their inheritance
 * Maiden names of female spouses are not usually mentioned
 * Children are not always listed in birth order
 * No every-name index for those listed in the will

Limitations of probate records

 * Not everyone left a will
 * Not all relatives are listed--usually only the wife and children
 * Date of death is usually not given
 * Indexes usually list testator, not heirs or beneficiaries
 * Information on the residence of relatives is rare