Everything you need to know about District of Columbia Form Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor, including helpful tips, fast facts & deadlines, how to fill it out, where to submit it and other related DC probate forms.
There are all sorts of forms executors, beneficiaries, and probate court clerks have to fill out and correspond with during probate and estate settlement, including affidavits, letters, petitions, summons, orders, and notices.
Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor is a commonly used form within District of Columbia. Here’s an overview of what the form is and means, including a breakdown of the situations when (or why) you may need to use it:
Sometimes it’s tough to find a quick summary— here’s the important details you should know about Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor:
This form pertains to the State of District of Columbia
Government forms are not typically updated often, though when they are, it often happens rather quietly. While Atticus works hard to keep this information about District of Columbia’s Form Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor up to date, certain details can change from time-to-time with little or no communication.
Double check that you have both the correct form name and the correct form ID. Some District of Columbia probate forms can look remarkably similar, so it’s best to double, even triple-check that you’re using the right one! Keep in mind that not all States have a standardized Form ID system for their probate forms.
Fill out all relevant fields in Form Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor, take a break, and then review. Probate and estate settlement processes in DC are long enough to begin with, and making a silly error can push your timeline even farther back. No thank you!
Note: If you don’t currently know all of the answers and are accessing Form Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor online, be sure to avoid closing the browser tab and potentially losing all your progress (or use a platform like Atticus to help avoid making mistakes).
Some States and situations require particular forms to be notarized. If you have been instructed to get the document notarized or see it in writing on the document, then make sure to hire a local notary. There are max notary fees in the United States that are defined and set by local law. Take a look at our full guide to notary fees to make sure you aren’t overpaying or getting ripped off.
This is most often the local probate court where the decedent (person who passed away) is domiciled (permanently resides) or the institution involved with this particular form (e.g. a bank). Some offices allow you to submit forms online, other’s don’t, and we while we generally recommend going in-person to expedite the process, sometimes that simply isn’t an option.
It’s also a generally good idea to establish a positive working relationship with any probate clerk (unfortunately there’s enough people & process out there making things more difficult and unnecessarily confusing for them), so a best practice is to simply ask the probate clerk proactively exactly how and where they’d prefer you to submit all forms.
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Different probate forms or processes can require different deadlines or response times for completing the appropriate form.
While some steps in the process are bound to specific deadlines (like petitioning for probate, having to submit an inventory of assets, or filing applicable notices to creditors and beneficiaries), many probate forms or processes are not tied to a specific deadline since the scope of work can vary based on situational factors or requirements involved.
Either way, there are a bunch of practical reasons why personal representatives should work to complete each step as thoroughly and quickly as possible when completing probate in District of Columbia.
The sooner you begin, the faster District of Columbia can allow heirs and beneficiaries to get their share of assets subject to probate. Acting promptly can also decrease the costs & overall mental fatigue through an otherwise burdensome process.
Helpful Context: What’s the Difference Between Probate and Non-Probate Assets?
In general, creditors of an estate usually have around 3-6 months from the time you file notice to creditors to file any claims for debt against the deceased’s assets. If they don’t, then that debt is forfeited (and more importantly, the executor won’t be held personally responsible). So doing this sooner means you have a better idea of who is owed what and ensures you won’t get a surprise collector months later.
Not filing a will within 30 days (on average) could mean that the probate process proceeds according to intestate laws (laws that govern what happens to someone's stuff without a will) or is subject to unnecessary supervision by the probate court. And if you aren't directly related to the deceased (a.k.a. next of kin), this could also mean you lose your inheritance.
It’s important to file any necessary state tax returns on behalf of the deceased or estate by the following tax season in District of Columbia. If you don’t, you could owe penalties and interest. This also includes any necessary federal tax returns such as Forms 1040, 1041, or even a Form 706 estate tax return.
If a house in the State of District of Columbia is left empty (or abandoned) for a while, insurance can get dicey. For example, if the house burns down and no one has been there for a year, an insurance company may get out of paying your claim.
If you’re not using Atticus to get specific forms, deadlines, and timelines for District of Columbia probate, then try and stay as organized as possible, pay close attention to the dates mentioned in any correspondence you have with the State’s government officials, call the local District of Columbia probate clerk or court for exact answers regarding Form Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor, and when in doubt— consult a qualified trust & estates lawyer for that area.
Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor is one of the many probate court forms available for download through Atticus.
It may also be available through some District of Columbia probate court sites, such as . In order to access the latest version, be updated with any revisions, and get full instructions on how to complete each form, check out the Atticus Probate & Estate Settlement software or consider hiring a qualified legal expert locally within District of Columbia.
While Atticus automatically provides the latest forms, be sure to choose the correct version of Form Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor f using any other site or resource in order to avoid having to re-complete the form process and/or make another trip to the District of Columbia probate court office.
Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor is a .pdf, so opening it should be as simple as clicking “View Form” from within the Atticus app or by clicking the appropriate link found on any District of Columbia-provided government platform. Once you’ve opened the form, you should be able to directly edit the form before saving or printing.
Form Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor is a probate form in District of Columbia.
District of Columbia has multiple types of probate and the necessary forms depend on the unique aspects of each estate, such as type and value of assets, whether there was a valid will, who is serving as the personal representative or executor, and even whether or not they also live in District of Columbia.
During probate, all personal representatives and executives in are required to submit a detailed inventory of assets that must separate non-probate assets from probate assets.
Probate in District of Columbia, especially without guidance, can take years to finish and cost upwards of $14,000.
What is probate, exactly?
Probate is the government’s way of making sure that when a person dies, the right stuff goes to the right people (including the taxes the government wants).
All of that stuff is collectively known as someone’s “estate”, and it’s the job of the executor or personal representative to fill out all the forms and complete all the required steps to formally dissolve the estate.
To get instant clarity on the entire probate process and get an idea of the steps, timeline, and best practices, read the Atticus Beginner’s Guide to Probate.
Where can I get help with Probate?
The best place? Create an account in Atticus to start getting estate-specific advice.
You may need a lawyer, you may not, and paying for one when you didn’t need it really hurts. Atticus makes sure you make the best decisions (plus you can write it off as an executor expense).
We’ve also created a list of other probate services. Be sure to check it out!
What does a DC executor or personal representative have to do?
An executor is named in someone’s will, and if the deceased didn’t have a will, then the spouse or other close family relative usually steps up to fulfill the role. If no one wants to do it, then a judge will appoint someone.
The executor is responsible for the complete management of the probate process, including major responsibilities such as:
Creating an inventory of all probate assets.
Filling out all necessary forms
Paying off all estate debts and taxes
Submitting reports to the court and beneficiaries as requested
And much more. This process often stretches longer than a year.
For an idea of what separates executors who succeed from those who make this way harder than it should be, visit our article, Executors of an Estate:
What they do & secrets to succeeding.
Here’s the text, verbatim, that is found on District of Columbia Form Initial Hearing (Int) - Report Of Visitor. You can use this to get an idea of the context of the form and what type of information is needed.
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION _________ INT _________ _________ IDD _________ In re: ________________________________ An Adult REPORT OF VISITOR I, ______________________________, visitor, appointed by order entered on ___________ _______________________ submit the following report concerning the investigation that I conducted pursuant to D.C. Code, sec. 21-2033(c) and either sec. 20-2041(d) or sec. 20-2054(a) and Superior Court, Probate Division Rule 327. I. Interview of subject of proceeding [Visitor should attempt to make the below inquiries in terms comprehensible to the subject]: A. Date and place of interview: ________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ B. Oriented by time and place? _______ Yes ______ No C. Physical appearance: _______________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ D. Subject asked and responded as follows: 1. Do you understand my explanation of the substance of the petition; the nature, purpose, and effect of the proceeding; and the general powers and duties of a guardian and conservator? ______Yes _________No (If no, explain here) ______________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 2. You have the right to retain an attorney at your own expense. If you cannot afford to pay an attorney, one will be provided by the Court without cost to you. Do you have an attorney? ____Yes ____No If yes, give name and address: _________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 3. Do you understand that under the law you have the following rights: To be present in person at any court proceeding and to see or hear all evidence bearing on your condition ____Yes ____No To be represented by counsel ____Yes ____No 1 November 2015 – 943.10.v3 To present evidence and cross-examine witnesses, including any court-appointed visitor or physician ____Yes ____No To have a closed hearing on any issue ____Yes ____No To contest the petition ____Yes ____No To object to the appointment of the proposed guardian or conservator or their powers or duties ____Yes ____No To object to the creation of the proposed guardianship or conservatorship or guardian ad litem appointed to represent your interests if the Court determines that a need for such representation exists ____Yes ____No To have all or a portion of the compensation of any court-appointed visitor, attorney, guardian ad litem or physician paid by the Court or the petitioner if you cannot afford to pay it _____Yes ____No 4. Who are your closest family members? (Give name, address, and relationship: _______________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ 5. Do you have a doctor? ________Yes ______No If yes, give name and address: ______________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ Is this the same doctor who provided a letter, if any, attached to the petition filed in these proceedings? ______Yes _______No 6. Do you need help caring for yourself or your finances? _____Yes ____No If yes, how: _____________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ 7. Who would you like to help care for you? _____________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ 8. How are you currently caring for yourself? _____________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ 2 November 2015 – 943.10.v3 _________________________________________________________________________ 9. Describe your income, assets, and liabilities: ___________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ 10. Do you know _____________________, the proposed guardian or conservator? ____Yes ____No a. How do you feel about having him/her make decisions about your day to day care? ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ b. What decisions do you want your guardian or conservator to make? __________________ __________________________________________________________________________ c. If a guardian or conservator is appointed, what decisions would you like to make for yourself, and what actions (e.g. with respect to your property), would you like to take for yourself? ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ d. How do you feel about what is requested in the petition? (Visitor should describe request.) ____________________________________________________________________________ e. Names of third person(s) present during the interview (if any) and their relationship to the subject: _____________________________________________________________________ II. Interview of person(s) seeking appointment as guardian or conservator: A. Date and place of interview: _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ B. Person(s) seeking appointment asked and responded as follows: 1. Name, address, home and business telephone numbers, and occupation: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 2. Relationship to subject of the proceeding: _______________________________________ 3. Why does subject need help: _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ 4. Where has the subject resided during the last three months? __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ 5. Who, if anyone, has been caring for subject during this period? _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ 6. What changes in residence are contemplated? ___________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ 3 November 2015 – 943.10.v3 7. What alternative arrangements have you sought to assist subject? ___________________ ________________________________________________________________________ 8. Have you discussed your plans for care and management with subject? ____Yes ____No 9. Does subject agree with your plans? ____Yes ____No III. Interview of persons who have evaluated or rendered care, counsel, treatment or service to subject of proceeding in recent past: A. Name and position of person(s) interviewed: ___________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ B. Training and qualifications of person(s) interviewed: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ C. Dates and types of evaluations of or care, counsel, treatment, or services rendered to subject (attach additional sheets if necessary): Date Type of treatment/service ____________ ________________________________________________________ ____________ ________________________________________________________ ____________ ________________________________________________________ ____________ ________________________________________________________ D. Diagnosis or opinion of subject’s condition (if any): ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ E. What functions can the subject not perform in his or her daily life? ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ IV. Report on condition of subject’s present place of abode: A. Date______ [ ] visited [ ] information otherwise obtained: ___________________________________________________________________________ B. Address: _________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ C. Type of abode: ____________________________________________________________ D. Condition (if a home) Lawn and landscaping: _____________________________________________________ 1. Exterior: ___________________________________________________________ 2. Interior: ___________________________________________________________ a. Utilities working? ____Yes ____No b. Clean? ____Yes ____No c. Fire hazards? ____Yes ____No d. Other (explain): ___________________________________________________ 4 November 2015 – 943.10.v3 V. Report on condition of subject’s proposed place of confinement or residence: A. Date __________ [ ] visited [ ] information otherwise obtained: _________________________________________________________________________ B. Location and type of place: _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ C. Condition: _______________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ VI. Conclusion of visitor: A. The nature and degree of subject’s current incapacity or disability is as follows: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ B. My evaluation of the fitness and appropriateness of the guardian or conservator seeking appointment is as follows: _____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ C. I do [ ] I do not [ ] recommend limitations of the powers of the guardian or conservator seeking appointment. If limitations are recommended, explain: __________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ D. I am of the opinion that a guardian ad litem [ ] should [ ] should not be appointed to represent the subject because ___________________________________________________ VII. Additional comments (if any): ___________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ VIII. If there is no nominated guardian or conservator, I hereby nominate ____________________ to serve as guardian and __________________________ to serve as conservator, for the following reasons: _____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Date _____________________ 5 November 2015 – 943.10.v3 _____________________________________ Signature _____________________________________ Typed name _____________________________________ Address (actual address/not Post Office Box) _____________________________________ _____________________________________ ______________________________________ Telephone number ______________________________________ Email address ______________________________________ Bar number (if filer is an attorney) CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I certify that on the ____ day of ____________________, 20____, a copy of this filing was either eServed in accordance with the provisions of Administrative Order 13-15 or served by first class mail, postage prepaid, on the following persons (list names and complete mailing addresses): ____________________________ Signature 6 November 2015 – 943.10.v3 7 November 2015 – 943.10.v3
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