Probate is how the state makes sure a deceased person's debts are paid and the remaining assets go to the right people. It is public record, can take months to a year, and involves court filings plus (in most cases) an attorney. Good estate planning often aims to keep as much out of probate as possible through trusts and beneficiary designations.
Glossary · foundation
Probate
In plain English
The court-supervised process of validating a will, settling debts, and distributing a deceased person's probate assets.