Probate Law
Probate is the process by which a court decides if a decedent’s will is valid and appoints a personal representative (previously known as an “executor�) to marshal the assets, pay debts and distribute the property to the beneficiaries per the terms of the will. If the estate does not involve any unusual issues or a contest to the will, an informal probate proceeding can be filed. Informal probate does not require a court hearing and is handled administratively by the court. If there are unusual issues or if an objection to the will has been filed, then a formal probate proceeding is required which will be heard by a judge.