When does a family need an affidavit of heirship?

An affidavit of heirship is often used when a deceased property owner did not leave a will, and the heirs are seeking to speed up the settlement process. It is used to make known that a person wishes to be considered a lawful heir, notes Rocket Lawyer.

A successful affidavit of heirship can result in the interested parties avoiding probate court. They are often used when the heirs are in agreement as to how the estate is distributed, but they also aid the resolution of contested cases. It is generally used when the deceased only leaves real property, as indicated by Rocket Lawyer.