When people say “probate,” they usually mean the entire process of settling someone’s affairs. But probate is actually a legal step: it verifies the will and appoints someone to act. That’s not where the work ends—it’s where it begins.

Grief doesn’t follow deadlines—but the probate court does. Many families are surprised to learn how quickly legal steps must begin after a death. From securing property to notifying heirs, the duties of an executor or administrator can’t be postponed for long.