What is the probate process?

What is the probate process?

In California, the probate process involves the filing of a petition to be appointed as an executor or administrator, depending upon whether or not there is a will. After the appointment by the court of the executor or administrator ('the personal representative' is the generic term), the personal representative will prepare an inventory of the estate assets which will be appraised by a third party who is appointed by the court. During the period of probate, creditors are given formal notice of the death and given a limited period of time within which to file claims. After that period has passed (that's four months in California), and after the probate assets have all been appraised by the court appointed appraiser, the personal representative at any time can petition for final distribution of the estate and render an accounting to the beneficiaries of the heirs, if that's called for.