What is the primary function of a probate court?

The primary function of a probate court is to administer wills and estates. This court specifically deals with matters involving the distribution of a deceased person's estate, ensuring that their assets are managed and transferred according to their wishes as expressed in their will or, in the absence of a will, according to state laws. Probate courts also address issues related to the appointment of executors or administrators, the validation of wills, and the settling of claims against the estate.

Understanding this role is crucial because probate courts play a unique and significant part in the legal process surrounding death and inheritance. They are separate from courts that handle criminal cases, traffic laws, or family law disputes, which are governed by different legal frameworks and serve different purposes within the justice system. This specialization in handling estates and wills highlights the probate court's focused expertise in ensuring that the legal distribution of a person's assets is conducted fairly and accurately.