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. This legal procedure verifies the validity of a deceased person's will (if one exists) and ensures that the estate is administered according to the law and the wishes of the deceased. During probate, the court oversees the distribution of the decedent's assets to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries, effectively resolving who inherits what from the estate.

While settling debts of an estate and evaluating property value might occur during the probate process, these are not the main objectives. The core focus remains on ascertaining how the assets will be allocated among the heirs, ensuring that the decedent's intentions are honored within the legal framework. This is crucial to prevent disputes and protect the rights of all parties involved.