Probate of a will is a legal process through which a court certifies that a will is genuine and grants the executor the authority to administer the deceased person’s estate according to the terms of that will. What Does Probate Mean? When a person dies leaving a will, the will needs to be proved in a court of law to ensure it is valid and legally binding. The court issues a "Probate", which is an official document confirming that the will is valid. Probate gives the executor the legal right to collect the assets, pay debts, and distribute the estate as per the will. When Is Probate Required? Probate is generally required when the deceased owned immovable property (like land or a house). It may also be necessary for banks or financial institutions to release funds to the executor. Probate is more commonly needed in cases where there is a dispute or doubt about the will’s validity. Process of Probate 1. Filing a Petition The executor or any interested party files a petition in the competent court asking for probate of the will. 2. Notice and Hearing The court issues notices to heirs and others who might contest the will. A hearing is held to verify the authenticity of the will and resolve disputes if any. 3. Grant of Probate If the court is satisfied, it grants probate, officially recognizing the will. 4. Administration of Estate The executor then takes control of the assets and distributes them as per the will. Probate vs Letter of Administration If a person dies without a will (intestate), the court grants a Letter of Administration to someone (usually a close relative) to administer the estate. Probate applies only if there is a valid will. Summary Probate of a will is a legal process to authenticate a deceased person’s will, allowing the executor to manage and distribute the estate legally and smoothly. It provides legal recognition and safeguards against fraudulent claims.