Probate is a legal term for the court procedure of finalizing the affairs of a person who has died and left a will. Usually the executor (ig-ZEK-yuh-ter) named in the will begins the probate process by filing the original will with the court. Step-by-step procedures are required during the probate of an estate. Due to the complex nature of the probate process, the executor may find it beneficial to retain an attorney to assist in the handling of the estate. The fees for the attorney will be paid out of the assets of the estate. For more information on the probate of estates, please contact a local attorney.
