A Last Will and Testament, commonly known as a Will, is a legal document that outlines how a person’s assets will be distributed and managed after they die. The individual creating the Will, called the testator, specifies which beneficiaries will receive which assets. The Will also appoints an executor or personal representative, who will be responsible for carrying out the testator’s wishes in accordance with the Will. The personal representative will guide the estate through probate, a court-supervised process that verifies the Will’s validity and ensures that it is executed properly. Probate can be lengthy and complicated, especially if there are issues with the Will. Most assets held solely in the testator’s name typically go through probate, which is why careful planning and creating a clear, comprehensive Will is important. It’s also essential to choose a trustworthy and competent personal representative. Azure Brio Associates has experienced probate attorneys who can help personal representatives navigate the probate process and minimize its impact on the estate. Additionally, our Estate Planning Lawyers can assist in finding ways to avoid probate altogether.