Probate

Probate, legal process of proving that a will is valid. Before a will can take effect, it must be shown that it is genuine, that it was the deceased's last will, that he or she signed it voluntarily and was of sound mind. Probate requires all possible heirs of the testator's property to be notified before a special hearing is held in a probate court, where objections can be lodged.

See also: Will.