Probate

Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's estate is administered and distributed. It involves validating the deceased's will (if one exists), settling debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries. This process ensures that the wishes of the deceased are honored while complying with legal requirements. Probate can vary in complexity depending on the size of the estate and whether there are disputes among heirs. It typically occurs in a probate court, where a judge oversees the proceedings to ensure fair and lawful distribution of the estate.