What is Probate?
Probate is the first step in administering the estate of a loved one who died either with a will (testate) or without a will (intestate). If your loved one left a will, the court will determine if the will is valid and appoint the person named in the will as the executor of the estate. If your loved one did not leave a will, the court will appoint an administrator of the estate and determine who are the heirs of the estate.