A Will has no effect until recognized as valid by the Court.  Probate is the legal process that the courts use to implement a Will. Even if you die intestate your estate must still pass through the Probate system. In that case, the court decides how to distribute your estate among your relatives.  The Probate Court serves in two capacities.  The first is merely to supervise Probate proceedings, since most are uncontested.  The Court recognizes a valid Will and appoints a personal representative of the estate.  The second capacity is to question and judge the suitability of the personal representative, the circumstances under which that person may operate independently, or under Court supervision.  The Probate legally authorizes your personal representative to carry out the wishes in your Will.

If you have Probate issues and wish to speak to an attorney please download the following questionnaire to fill out and bring to your initial consultation.

• Probate Questionnaire