What does probate mean?
Probate is the legal process by which the assets of a deceased person are properly distributed. Probate takes place if there is a will (that is called testate) or if there is no will (intestate). Distribution follows this procedure: (a) if there is a will, those assets are distributed to the beneficiaries or heirs through an executor named in the will; or (b) if that person died without a will, those assets are distributed according to the local law by a court appointed administrator. In both cases, the court’s objective is to ensure that the deceased’s debts, taxes, and other valid-claims are paid out of his or her estate before any distribution is made to the estate’s beneficiaries, in accordance with the will (if it exists) or on the orders of the court (if it doesn’t).