Probate
The court process for settling an estate after someone dies.
What Probate means in an estate
Probate proves the will (if there is one), appoints someone with legal authority to act, identifies the assets and debts, pays valid claims and taxes, and distributes whatever is left. Not everything goes through it: assets with a beneficiary designation, survivorship property, and trust assets pass outside probate. How many probate tracks a state offers, what those tracks are called, and how much court supervision each one carries vary by state.
How this works in your state
The concept is national, but the forms, procedure names, thresholds, and filing practice vary by state. Open your state glossary and guides to see how probate is handled where the estate is being settled.
Full probate glossary
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Probate assessment
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Information current as of April 4, 2026
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.