How does the probate process get started?
The first step is to determine whether there is a will or not. If so, someone is probably named in it as executor; usually it’s a family member. If not, a local probate court will appoint one (although they have different terms for court-appointed managers of an estate). In either case, the court open a case for the estate, which will stay open until all of the estate’s debts are paid and the assets are transferred properly to the heirs.
