Probate is a legal process where a deceased person’s estate is managed, their bills and taxes are paid, and any remaining assets are distributed to the right people. Each state has its own probate rules, but they all share the same basic goal: to ensure a fair transfer of property and settle outstanding debts before closing the estate. If you’re an heir waiting for your inheritance, here’s a clear overview of what to expect.
Understanding Probate
When someone dies, their “estate” includes things like bank accounts, real estate, investments, and personal belongings. If the estate must go through probate, the court will review any will that exists—or if there’s no will, the court follows intestate succession laws. This allows creditors to make valid claims against the estate, ensures the will (if one exists) is valid, and confirms the beneficiaries who are entitled to receive the assets.
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