Collection and Inventory

• After the initial filings for probate are entered into the court and a personal representative or executor is appointed, the probate process truly begins. The first major step for the personal representative or executor, the person in charge of handling the estate assets, is to collect and inventory all estate assets and liabilities, such as debts.
  
  

Pay Liabilities

• The next step in the probate process is to pay the debts of the decedent's estate. This includes creditor debts, taxes and expenses that may be incurred by the estate during the probate process.
  
  

Distributing Estate Assets

• The final step, is to transfer title to property and money to the heirs of the estate. Again, the time frame depends on both the particular state's laws, as well as factors unique to the estate that may delay the process, such as if someone contests the will. However, a rough estimate is 9-17 months.