What is the primary purpose of the probate process?

The primary purpose of the probate process is to determine the inheritance of a decedent's property. During probate, the court oversees the distribution of the deceased person's assets according to their will (if one exists) or, in the absence of a will, according to state intestacy laws. This legal process ensures that the decedent's wishes are honored and that beneficiaries receive their rightful shares of the estate.

Probate involves verifying the validity of the will, appointing an executor or administrator, and addressing any claims against the estate. By doing so, it provides a structured and legally recognized method for transferring property, thereby minimizing disputes among heirs and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

While settling debts of an estate is part of the probate process, the main focus is on determining who inherits the property. The other options, such as distributing property without legal oversight or evaluating property value for real estate transactions, do not encapsulate the core function of probate, which centers around legal validation and the allocation of assets in accordance with the deceased's intent or state law.