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Now that you know what probate is and why you probably want to avoid it, let's move on to the most common ways to avoid probate. Joint ownership of property. ... Beneficiary designations. ... Pay-on-death and transfer-on-death accounts. ... Revocable living trust. ... Giving away property.

Whenever there is a death in New Castle County, an estate must be probated if: The decedent had more than $30,000 in personal property in his/her name alone, or. The decedent owned Delaware real estate in his/her name alone, either solely held or as a tenant in common.

The maker must be at least 18 years of age and of sound and disposing mind and memory; 2. The Will must be in writing. A Will written entirely in the Testator's handwriting (a Holographic Will) is valid in Delaware if the other requirements are met.

No, you are not required to use a lawyer to make a Will in Delaware. There are some situations, like a complex estate or difficult family relationships, where it may be beneficial to consult a lawyer.

Some of the strategic ways you can avoid probate include: Titling securities and vehicles with Transfer on Death (TOD) registrations. Opening accounts and policies with Payable on Death (POD) designations. Setting up and fund a Living Trust.

A living trust is often the best choice for a large estate or if there are many beneficiaries. To avoid probate, most people create a living trust commonly called a revocable living trust.