Probate

Probate is the legal process that transfers the legal title of property and/or assets from the estate of the deceased to their beneficiaries. 

With a will
If the deceased has a will, a “probate” court may or may not need to determine that it is legal.

If a court determines that a will is legal, it also grants “probate” – or approves – a trustee to carry out the wishes of the deceased person. This trustee is often named in a will.

No will
Without a will, an estate is distributed according to the law. This can be a complex process. If you are in this situation, you might want to contact a lawyer.