The estate's value exceeds the minimum threshold for small estate exemptions.

Some states, including Colorado, have small estate exemptions. In Michigan, if an estate is valued at $50,000 or less, it may qualify for a small estate affidavit, allowing the family to bypass probate. If you believe your loved one's estate qualifies, you must apply for this affidavit and obtain approval before transferring assets to beneficiaries.

However, probate in Colorado or other states may still be required in certain situations, even if the estate meets the small estate exemption threshold. For instance, an insurance or title company might need legal proof of the decedent’s property ownership, necessitating probate to establish this documentation.