What is the Probate process?
When an individual dies, their bills must be paid and their assets distributed.
If they die with a will (testate) then the will must be taken to the Probate Court, accepted as a valid document and filed with the Court.
If someone dies without a will (intestate) then each state legislature has established laws to determine who will receive their assets.
In either case, a Personal Representative is appointed and that individual is responsible for collecting all of the deceased assets, paying their final bills, including any taxes due, and then distributing the property, as directed by the will or the legislature.
All of this is subject to the overview and approval of the Probate Court.
The entire estate process can take from a few months to years, depending upon the state laws and the estate complexity.
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