Petition for Probate

A Petition for Probate is a legal document filed with the court to initiate the probate process after someone’s death. Key aspects include:

1. Identifies the deceased person and their date of death

2. Names the proposed executor or administrator

3. Lists known heirs and beneficiaries

4. Provides details about the will, if one exists

5. Estimates the value of the estate

6. Requests the court to appoint an executor or administrator

7. Asks for “letters testamentary” or “letters of administration”

This document is typically the first step in the probate process, which involves validating the will, inventorying assets, paying debts, and distributing the remaining estate to beneficiaries. Filing a Petition for Probate is usually necessary for estates that exceed a certain value threshold or contain certain types of assets. The process can vary by state, so it’s important to understand local laws and requirements.