Probate

Probate involves the management of the estate of a deceased individual (the decedent) by the personal representative (usually an executor named in a will). The executor will manage the decedent’s affairs: pay off debts and collecting income, interest, and any amounts owed to the estate. After the estate’s debts are paid and its assets are collected, the executor will distribute what remains in accordance with the terms of the will. Certain documents must be filed with the court and served on (sent to) interested persons; a lawyer can handle all of the details for the executor or can help the executor make sure "every t is crossed and every i is dotted."