1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Palliative Care

Probate Definition

By Angela Morrow, RN, About.com

Updated April 02, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Probate is a legal process that takes place after someones death. It usually involves proving that the deceased's will is valid, identifying the deceased person's property and having it appraised, paying outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing the property per the will or state law.
Examples:
After Grandma's death, her estate spent nearly one year in probate court.
Explore Palliative Care
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Palliative Care
  4. Glossary
  5. What is Probate? - Definition of Probate>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.