Complete Guide to Probate Administration Services in Smithville
Probate administration involves settling a decedent’s estate according to Tennessee law, which includes validating wills, managing assets, paying debts and distributing inheritances. For families in Smithville, the process can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time. This page lays out how probate typically works in DeKalb County, what steps you can expect, and how to prepare your documentation. We focus on clear, practical guidance so you can move forward with confidence, whether you are initiating probate, serving as a personal representative, or assisting a loved one through the administration process.
Many people in Smithville and surrounding areas are unfamiliar with the timelines, forms, and court requirements that come with probate administration. This guide explains common tasks such as filing the initial petition, inventorying estate assets, notifying creditors, and completing final accountings. It also outlines potential complications like creditor claims, disputes among heirs, or unclear will language. Our intent is to provide straightforward explanations that help you anticipate each stage of the process so you can make informed decisions and reduce delays throughout probate administration.
Why Proper Probate Administration Matters in Smithville
Proper probate administration ensures that a decedent’s affairs are resolved in accordance with Tennessee law and the decedent’s final wishes. Completing probate correctly protects estate assets from loss, addresses creditor claims in an orderly way, and produces a clear legal transfer of property to heirs or beneficiaries. Beyond legal compliance, careful administration reduces the risk of later disputes and helps family members move forward with financial certainty. Timely handling of probate also avoids unnecessary court costs and helps preserve estate value for intended recipients.
About Jay Johnson Law Firm and Our Probate Practice in Hendersonville
Jay Johnson Law Firm serves families across Tennessee, including Smithville and DeKalb County, with focused attention on estate planning and probate administration. Our approach prioritizes clear communication, organized case management, and practical solutions tailored to each family’s circumstances. We assist clients with petition preparation, inventory and appraisal coordination, creditor notices, and final distribution matters. The goal is to minimize confusion and delays by anticipating common probate hurdles while keeping clients informed at every stage of the process.
Understanding Probate Administration in Tennessee
Probate administration is the legal process that takes place after someone passes away to handle their estate under state law. In Tennessee this involves filing documents with the probate court, proving the validity of a will when one exists, appointing a personal representative to act on behalf of the estate, and overseeing asset collection and distribution. The court supervises certain steps to ensure creditors are notified and estate obligations are met. Understanding these required actions helps families prepare paperwork, identify necessary witnesses or appraisers, and estimate how long the administration may take based on estate complexity.
During probate, the personal representative has duties that include identifying estate assets, safeguarding property, arranging valuations when needed, and handling claims against the estate. Tennessee procedures may also require publication or mailed notices to potential creditors and beneficiaries. Depending on whether the estate is titled or contains complex assets, the process can be straightforward or involve additional reporting and court oversight. Awareness of each stage allows family members to coordinate with banks, title companies, and appraisers so the estate is managed responsibly and distributions proceed on a lawful timeline.
What Probate Administration Means for Families
Probate administration is the formal legal process used to settle an estate when someone dies. It includes tasks such as verifying a will, inventorying assets, notifying creditors, paying taxes and debts, and distributing remaining property to beneficiaries. The court oversees the appointment of the personal representative who performs these duties and ensures legal requirements are met. For many families, probate provides a structured path to resolve financial and legal matters, clarifying ownership and supplying the documentation necessary to transfer titles, close accounts, and finalize the decedent’s affairs.
Key Steps and Processes in Probate Administration
Common elements of probate administration include filing the initial petition, conducting an inventory of estate assets, giving notice to heirs and creditors, addressing creditor claims, completing required accountings, and requesting approval for final distributions. Each step has specific forms and deadlines under Tennessee law. For estates with real property, deeds and title transfers must also be handled. Some matters, such as disputes over a will or unresolved debts, can extend the timeline. Being prepared with accurate asset documentation and a clear plan for creditor notifications helps streamline the process.
Key Terms and Probate Glossary for Smithville Residents
Navigating probate is easier when you know the common terms used in court filings and estate administration. This glossary covers essential words and phrases you will encounter, explains their relevance to the probate timeline, and indicates practical implications for the personal representative and beneficiaries. Understanding definitions such as personal representative, intestacy, inventory, and allowance for creditors helps you interpret court paperwork and communicate effectively with fiduciaries, banks, and county clerks during estate settlement.
Personal Representative
The personal representative is the individual appointed by the probate court to administer the decedent’s estate. This person is responsible for collecting assets, notifying creditors and beneficiaries, paying valid debts and expenses, and distributing any remaining property to rightful recipients. The role requires careful record keeping, regular communication with heirs, and compliance with court orders and statutory deadlines. While the duties can be time-consuming, the personal representative serves a legal function that ensures the estate is managed and closed in an orderly and lawful manner.
Intestacy
Intestacy occurs when an individual dies without a valid will, in which case Tennessee law determines how assets are distributed among surviving relatives. Under intestacy rules, priority is given to spouses, children, parents, and other kin depending on family structure, and the court appoints an administrator to handle the estate. Because intestate distribution may not match what the decedent might have intended, it is often beneficial to understand these rules ahead of time. The intestacy process can add complexity and may lead to disagreements among relatives without clear written instructions from the decedent.
Inventory and Appraisal
An inventory is a detailed list of an estate’s assets prepared for the court, and an appraisal assigns fair market values when required. The personal representative must document all property, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, vehicles, and personal effects, and provide valuations for assets where the court requests clarity. Accurate inventories help determine estate taxes, creditor limits, and appropriate distributions to beneficiaries. Proper documentation also helps avoid disputes by creating a transparent record of what the estate owned at the time of death.
Creditor Claims
Creditor claims are formal requests by creditors to be paid from the estate for outstanding debts owed by the decedent. Tennessee law prescribes how and when creditors must be notified and how claims are evaluated by the personal representative and the probate court. Valid claims are paid from estate assets before distributions to beneficiaries, while disputed claims may require court resolution. Proper notice and handling of creditor claims protect the personal representative and help ensure the estate closes without unexpected liabilities resurfacing after distributions have occurred.
Comparing Probate Options and Approaches
There are different approaches to settling an estate, ranging from limited probate procedures for small estates to full administration for larger or contested estates. Some matters can be resolved through simplified filings, while others require formal court supervision and detailed accounting. Families should consider estate size, asset types, and whether a valid will exists when choosing the appropriate path. Identifying the most suitable procedure early helps limit delays and cost. Understanding the trade-offs between simplicity and court oversight lets families select an approach that best fits their priorities and the estate’s complexity.
When Limited Probate Procedures May Be Adequate:
Smaller Estates and Clear Titles
A limited probate approach may be appropriate when estate assets are modest in value and ownership is clearly documented, such as bank accounts with payable-on-death designations or jointly held property that passes outside probate. When there are few creditors and heirs agree on distributions, simplified processes can shorten court timelines and reduce filing requirements. Using a streamlined path can limit administrative costs and paperwork while providing the necessary legal authority to access accounts and transfer property to beneficiaries in an efficient manner.
Uncontested Estates with Clear Documentation
Limited procedures are often suitable when there is a valid, unambiguous will and beneficiaries are in agreement about estate distribution. When documentation such as beneficiary designations, account records, and clear title to property are readily available, the court may permit simplified filings. In these situations, thorough but concise paperwork supports a quicker resolution and reduces the administrative burden on the personal representative, while still ensuring legal compliance and proper notification to required parties.
Why a Full Probate Administration May Be Necessary:
Complex Estates and Multiple Assets
Full probate administration is often necessary for estates that include significant real estate, business interests, numerous investment accounts, or assets that lack straightforward title documentation. These circumstances require a thorough inventory, possible appraisals, and careful coordination with financial institutions and appraisal professionals. Additionally, complex estates may need tax filings and detailed court accountings to satisfy legal requirements, and a comprehensive process helps ensure all obligations are met before final distributions are completed.
Disputes, Creditor Issues, or Unclear Wills
When beneficiaries dispute a will, when creditors mount significant claims, or when the will’s instructions are unclear, full probate administration provides court supervision that helps resolve contested issues. The court process establishes a legally enforceable framework for addressing objections, verifying claims, and equitably distributing assets. This level of oversight is beneficial when parties require formal rulings or when complex legal questions arise regarding asset ownership, beneficiary rights, or the validity of testamentary documents.
Benefits of a Thorough Probate Administration
A comprehensive approach to probate administration offers clarity and finality by ensuring all required legal steps are completed under the court’s oversight. This reduces the likelihood of future claims against the estate or challenges from disgruntled heirs, and it provides formal documentation of asset transfers that banks, title companies, and government agencies accept. Thorough administration also helps ensure creditors are properly notified and paid, protecting beneficiaries from unexpected liabilities after distributions occur.
Taking a detailed approach to probate helps preserve asset value through coordinated valuation, sale or transfer strategies, and proper handling of tax obligations. It also centralizes communications with all interested parties, which can reduce misunderstandings and streamline decision making. Families receive a documented accounting of estate activity, which builds transparency and trust among heirs. Finally, a complete administration can be tailored to mitigate risk and provide a clear path to final distribution under court approval.
Legal Certainty and Clear Title Transfer
One major benefit of a comprehensive probate is the legal certainty that comes with court-supervised transfers of title and ownership. Completing required filings and receiving court approval establishes a defensible record that institutions recognize when changing deeds, closing accounts, or assigning assets. This reduces the chance of future disputes over property ownership and provides beneficiaries with the documentation necessary to assert their rights confidently. Legal certainty also simplifies downstream transactions such as real estate sales or re-titling of financial accounts.
Creditor Resolution and Risk Reduction
A thorough probate process ensures that creditor claims are identified, evaluated, and resolved in accordance with Tennessee law, which helps protect beneficiaries from residual liability. By following statutory notice procedures and properly administering claim allowances or rejections, the estate can be closed with greater confidence that outstanding debts have been addressed. This structured handling of claims reduces legal risk, preserves estate assets for rightful distribution, and offers a clear record of payments and denials in case questions arise later.
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Practical Tips for Managing Probate in Smithville
Organize Important Documents Early
Gathering essential documents at the outset greatly reduces delays during probate. This includes the decedent’s will, recent bank statements, deeds, vehicle titles, insurance policies, retirement account statements, and a record of outstanding debts. Having beneficiary designations and contact information for potential heirs and creditors ready streamlines notifications and court filings. Organized documentation also helps valuers and financial institutions provide accurate information quickly, which minimizes the time the estate remains open and reduces administrative costs over the course of probate.
Notify Relevant Parties and Keep Clear Records
Plan for Appraisals and Tax Considerations
Identify assets that may require professional valuation, such as real estate, business interests, or valuable personal items, and arrange appraisals early to avoid closing delays. Be mindful of potential estate tax or income tax obligations and assemble documentation needed for tax filings. Coordinating early with accountants, appraisers, and title companies provides a smoother timeline and can prevent last-minute surprises. Preparing for these steps helps ensure the estate meets legal obligations and that distributions are completed without unexpected financial setbacks.
When to Consider Probate Administration Assistance
Consider engaging probate administration services when you are appointed as a personal representative and need guidance navigating Tennessee probate procedures, or when an estate includes complex assets such as real property, retirement accounts, or business interests. Assistance is also valuable when creditor claims are present or when beneficiaries are dispersed across different jurisdictions. Professional support helps ensure that deadlines are met, notices are properly issued, and distributions comply with legal requirements, reducing potential liabilities and administrative burdens on family members.
Another common reason to seek probate administration support is when there are heightened risks of disputes among heirs or uncertainty surrounding the validity of a will. When emotions run high and factual questions about asset ownership exist, trusted guidance helps the personal representative navigate negotiation, court filings, and communication with interested parties. Even in straightforward estates, assistance can reduce delays and administrative errors, allowing families to focus on personal matters while the necessary legal work is completed efficiently and transparently.
Common Situations That Require Probate Administration
Probate administration is commonly required when a decedent held assets solely in their name, when there are outstanding debts that must be settled through estate funds, or when heirs need court authority to transfer title to real property. It is also necessary when a will names a personal representative but additional legal steps are needed to establish authority. Other circumstances include intestate deaths, complex family dynamics, or claims against the estate that require formal oversight to resolve disputes and ensure lawful distribution of assets.
No Beneficiary Designation or Sole Ownership
When assets are owned solely by the decedent and lack beneficiary designations, probate administration is typically necessary to transfer ownership legally. This applies to bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, and other titled property. The probate process establishes who has legal authority to collect those assets and provides a mechanism to transfer titles to heirs or devisees. Without probate, institutions often refuse to release funds or change title records, which can stall access to important estate resources needed to pay debts and expenses.
Debts and Creditor Claims
If the decedent had outstanding debts, probate administration provides a formal process for evaluating and paying creditor claims from estate assets. The personal representative must notify creditors per Tennessee statutes and determine which claims are valid. Handling this requirement through probate ensures creditors are treated fairly while protecting the estate from unresolved liabilities. Proper handling of these claims prevents creditors from pursuing heirs directly after distributions and helps close the estate with a reduced risk of future legal action.
Disputed Wills or Beneficiary Conflicts
When the validity of a will is contested or beneficiaries disagree on asset distribution, probate administration under court supervision offers a structured forum to address conflicts. The court reviews evidence, determines the legal effect of testamentary documents, and issues orders that resolve competing claims. Formal probate helps preserve the rights of all parties and creates a clear record of decisions and distributions, reducing the likelihood of ongoing disputes and providing more predictable outcomes for family members as the estate is settled.
Probate Administration Services Available in Smithville
Jay Johnson Law Firm provides probate administration services to families in Smithville and DeKalb County, assisting with every stage from initiating the probate case to final distribution. We work to organize estate inventories, prepare necessary court filings, and coordinate with appraisers, financial institutions, and county officials. Our focus is to provide clear guidance and steady communication so personal representatives and heirs understand the timeline, paperwork, and obligations involved in closing an estate responsibly under Tennessee law.
Why Choose Our Firm for Probate Administration in Hendersonville and Smithville
Our practice emphasizes responsive communication and careful management of probate matters so families can rely on an organized approach during estate settlement. We prioritize clear timelines, accurate filings, and respectful coordination with heirs and creditors. Working with our team helps ensure required notices are issued, inventories are prepared properly, and accounting obligations are met under court supervision. This approach helps reduce uncertainty for personal representatives and supports a steady path to final distribution.
We assist by preparing and filing documents, advising on valuation and tax considerations, and liaising with banks, appraisers, and title companies to facilitate transfers. Our goal is to minimize administrative delays and guide families through procedural requirements efficiently. By providing practical, process-oriented support, we help personal representatives focus on the responsibilities that require their attention while routine administrative tasks are handled methodically and in compliance with Tennessee probate rules.
When disputes arise or when unusual asset situations occur, having practiced guidance available can make a meaningful difference in outcomes and timing. We explain the options for resolving disagreements, document decisions for the court record, and pursue orderly resolutions that aim to protect estate value. Throughout the administration, we keep beneficiaries informed and provide transparent accountings so family members understand how estate matters are progressing toward closure.
Contact Jay Johnson Law Firm to Discuss Probate Administration
Probate Process at Our Firm: What to Expect
Our probate process begins with a careful review of the decedent’s records to determine whether probate is necessary and which court filings are required. We prepare the initial petition to open the estate, assist with appointment procedures for the personal representative, and begin compiling an inventory of assets. Throughout the administration we communicate regularly with interested parties, address creditor notices, and prepare accountings and final petitions for distribution. Each step follows Tennessee procedures so the estate can be closed without unnecessary delay.
Step One: Opening the Probate Case
Opening the probate case involves filing a petition with the local probate court, providing the decedent’s death certificate, and submitting the last will if one exists. The court then appoints a personal representative and issues letters testamentary or letters of administration to grant legal authority to act on the estate’s behalf. Early attention to these filings allows the representative to access accounts and manage assets while the estate begins its formal settlement process under judicial oversight.
Preparing and Filing Initial Paperwork
Preparing the initial petition includes gathering necessary documentation such as the decedent’s death certificate, will, and a list of known assets and heirs. Accurate and complete filings reduce the likelihood of delays in court review. The filing initiates the case and identifies who is authorized to act for the estate. Properly drafted petitions and supporting documentation set the stage for a smoother administration by clarifying the estate’s scope and the personal representative’s authority from the outset.
Appointment of the Personal Representative
After the petition is filed, the court reviews the documentation and issues orders appointing the personal representative. This appointment grants the representative legal authority to inventory assets, notify creditors, and manage estate affairs. The representative receives letters from the court that are used to interact with financial institutions and title offices. Understanding the responsibilities that come with appointment helps the representative act in the estate’s best interests and comply with probate obligations throughout administration.
Step Two: Inventory and Creditor Notification
Following appointment, the personal representative compiles a detailed inventory of estate assets and begins the process of notifying known creditors and potential claimants. The inventory documents all property and provides valuations as required, which informs decisions about asset management and potential sales. Court-ordered notices and statutory timelines for creditor claims must be observed to ensure valid claims are addressed. Proper handling of this step helps preserve estate value and protects beneficiaries from unknown liabilities.
Compiling Asset Inventories and Valuations
Compiling the asset inventory requires identifying bank accounts, real property, vehicles, investments, and personal effects, then gathering supporting documentation. Certain assets may require appraisals to determine fair market value. Accurate valuations support tax filings and provide a basis for distributions. The process typically involves contacting financial institutions, retrieving account statements, and coordinating with appraisers when required. A thorough inventory ensures that all estate property is accounted for before distributions are planned.
Notifying Creditors and Managing Claims
Notifying creditors involves publishing or mailing required notices and responding to claims within the timeframes set by Tennessee law. The personal representative must evaluate each claim and determine whether it should be paid, disputed, or rejected. Proper documentation of claim handling and payments is essential for the court record and final accounting. Thoughtful management of creditor interactions protects estate assets and helps prevent unresolved liabilities from surfacing after distributions are made.
Step Three: Accounting and Distribution
The final stage of probate administration includes preparing accountings that summarize estate transactions, seeking court approval for distributions, and transferring assets to beneficiaries. The personal representative presents records of receipts, disbursements, and distributions and requests the court’s permission to close the estate. Once the court approves the final accounting and distribution plan, assets can be legally transferred to heirs or beneficiaries, and the personal representative can petition for discharge from further estate duties.
Preparing Final Accountings for the Court
Preparing final accountings involves compiling all financial activity during administration, including asset receipts, payments to creditors and taxes, and any distributions made to beneficiaries. The accounting must accurately reflect the estate’s status and support the requested final distribution. The court reviews the accounting for compliance with probate rules and may require additional documentation before granting approval. A complete and transparent accounting helps ensure the court authorizes the estate’s closure without further complications.
Transferring Assets and Closing the Estate
After the court approves the final accounting and distribution plan, the personal representative transfers assets to beneficiaries through deeds, re-titling of accounts, or direct payments. Proper documentation of transfers is necessary for title companies and financial institutions to accept and complete changes in ownership. Once distributions are confirmed and all notices and filings are complete, the representative petitions the court to close the estate and be discharged from further duties, marking the formal conclusion of the probate administration process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Probate Administration
What is the typical timeline for probate in DeKalb County?
Probate timelines depend on the estate’s complexity, whether there are disputes, and how quickly required documentation and notifications are completed. Simple, uncontested estates with readily available documentation can often be settled in several months, while larger estates with multiple assets, appraisals, or creditor disputes may take a year or longer. Court schedules and local administrative practices can also affect timing, so allowing for procedural steps and possible delays helps set realistic expectations.Early organization of records, prompt responses to creditor notices, and cooperation among beneficiaries can speed up the process. Initiating appraisals and addressing tax or title issues early reduces bottlenecks. The personal representative’s proactive management of filings and communications with the court, financial institutions, and heirs greatly influences how quickly the probate case moves toward final distribution and closure.
Do small estates have a simplified probate process?
Tennessee provides simplified procedures for certain small estates or when assets pass outside probate through beneficiary designations or joint ownership. These avenues can limit the need for full probate administration and reduce court filings, which shortens timelines and lowers costs. Whether a simplified approach is available depends on the total estate value, the types of assets involved, and whether title documents allow for nonprobate transfers.Determining eligibility for a simplified procedure requires review of estate assets and documentation. When appropriate, streamlined filings can be prepared to provide legal authority for access to accounts or transfer of property, but even in small estates, accurate paperwork and adherence to statutory notice requirements remain important to prevent later disputes or claim challenges.
What are the duties of a personal representative?
The personal representative is responsible for collecting and protecting estate assets, sending required notices to creditors and beneficiaries, filing inventories and accountings with the court, paying valid debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries. The role requires thorough recordkeeping and adherence to court instructions and statutory timelines to ensure the estate is administered lawfully and transparently.While the duties are significant, the personal representative does not act alone; the court provides guidance, and professional support can be engaged for tasks such as appraisals, tax preparation, or title transfers. Timely communication with beneficiaries and careful documentation of all transactions protect the representative and help the estate move toward an orderly closing.
How are creditor claims handled during probate?
Creditor claims must be handled according to Tennessee law, which prescribes notice procedures and timelines for filing and adjudicating claims against the estate. The personal representative notifies known creditors and follows statutory requirements for publishing notices when necessary. Valid claims are paid from estate assets before distributions to beneficiaries, while disputed claims may require the court’s involvement to resolve.Keeping clear records of notices, claim evaluations, and payments is essential. If a claim is rejected, documenting the reasons and the steps taken to notify the claimant helps the estate defend its position if the creditor seeks further action. Proper management of creditor claims reduces the risk of future liability for beneficiaries.
What happens if there is no will?
If someone dies without a valid will, their estate is distributed according to Tennessee’s intestacy rules, which specify the order of inheritance among surviving relatives. The court appoints an administrator to manage the estate, and assets are allocated to heirs based on statutory priorities that consider spouses, children, parents, and other family members. Intestacy can lead to outcomes different from what the decedent might have intended, which underscores the importance of planning when possible.Intestate estates may also create more potential for disputes among relatives because the decedent’s wishes are not documented. The appointment and oversight provided by the court help manage asset distribution, but lack of clear written direction can complicate family dynamics and prolong the administration process.
Will beneficiaries need to appear in court?
Beneficiaries are not typically required to appear in court for routine probate proceedings, though they will be notified of the case and may receive copies of important filings. Court appearances are more common when disputes arise, when a hearing is needed to resolve a contested issue, or when the court requests clarification on a particular matter. Most administrative tasks can be handled through filings and communications without personal attendance by beneficiaries.If a beneficiary chooses to challenge a will or contest an accounting, they will need to participate in court proceedings for those matters. Otherwise, beneficiaries generally receive notices and can monitor case progress through filings and communications with the personal representative or the court clerk.
Can probate be avoided entirely?
Probate can sometimes be avoided through advance planning tools such as beneficiary designations, joint ownership, trusts, or payable-on-death accounts that allow assets to transfer outside of probate. These arrangements can simplify or eliminate the need for court-supervised administration for certain assets, reducing time and cost. Which strategies are appropriate depends on asset types and individual circumstances, and they must be implemented in advance of a decedent’s passing to be effective.Even with planning, some assets may still require probate or court involvement, especially if title is solely in the decedent’s name or there are unresolved debts. Reviewing account titling and beneficiary designations periodically helps ensure these measures remain effective and reflect current intentions.
How are estate taxes and final tax returns addressed?
Estate taxes and final income tax returns must be considered during administration. The personal representative is responsible for arranging for any required estate tax filings and for filing the decedent’s final individual income tax return. Depending on the size and composition of the estate, additional tax forms or filings may be necessary, and deadlines must be observed to avoid penalties or interest.Accurate asset valuations and timely communication with tax professionals help ensure that tax liabilities are calculated correctly and paid from estate funds when appropriate. Keeping careful records of valuations, receipts, and payments is critical for preparing returns and satisfying tax obligations before distributions are made to beneficiaries.
What should I do if I am named personal representative?
If you are named personal representative, the first steps are to locate the decedent’s important documents, secure property, and file the necessary petition to be appointed by the probate court. You will also need to compile an inventory of assets and notify beneficiaries and creditors as required by Tennessee law. Taking an organized approach from the beginning simplifies later steps and helps ensure legal obligations are met.It is important to maintain detailed records of all transactions and communications, arrange for appraisals when needed, and coordinate with banks and title companies to access accounts and transfer property. While the responsibilities are significant, careful planning and documentation make the role manageable and protect both the estate and the personal representative.
How can property titles be transferred after probate?
Property titles are transferred after receiving court approval for final distributions. The personal representative executes deeds or documents necessary to convey real estate and provides court-issued letters to financial institutions for account transfers. Title companies and banks typically require certified copies of court orders and the letters testamentary or administration to complete changes in ownership.Ensuring clear documentation of transfers and following the proper recording procedures with the county register of deeds or other relevant offices completes the legal transfer. Accurate records and court authorization protect beneficiaries and complete the administrative cycle so assets are legally conveyed to their new owners.