Question on estate law?

[Megan]

My father died and the only real possession he had was a car that was formerly my great-grandmothers. My grandfather told me that since the car was in my father's name, I'd inherit it since I'm the only child. That was a year ago and I haven't heard from him again. And my aunt has been driving the car as if it was hers, even though she has a brand new car. Nice family, right? In the meantime, I lost my job and could really use the money from selling the car. So, my question is this: what, if anything, can/should I do and is there some way he avoided probate or something? Any advice/information is greatly appreciated.
It should automatically go to the sole heir, I know that much. My grandfather got it after my father died as he lived much closer than I did and he gave it to my aunt.

 

[Lori]

Did your father have a will? If so, then that controlled how his estate was distributed.

Was your father married? If so, his spouse his wife would have received at least a significant share of the estate. Did your father have any debts at the time of his death? If so, any assets would have to be liquidated (sold) to pay off the debts.

Who was the executor of your father's estate? That person should be able to provide you with an accounting of how the estate was settled. If that person is not willing to share the information with you, it should be available from the probate office at the local courthouse. Otherwise, you would probably need to consult an attorney.

 

[pumalol]

You are next of kin, anything in your father's name outomatically goes to you. How did this aunt get the keys to this car? Go over there and tell her either you are leaving with the car or you are taking her to court.