Probate Records: What They Are & How to Access Them
What are Probate Records?
Probate records are legal documents related to the distribution of a deceased person’s estate. These records are maintained by probate courts and often include:
✔️ Wills – Official documents detailing how assets should be distributed.
✔️ Estate Inventories – Lists of property owned by the deceased.
✔️ Executor Appointments – Court orders granting authority to manage the estate.
Why Are Probate Records Important?
- Legal heir verification – Used to prove inheritance claims.
- Genealogical research – Helps trace family history and lineage.
- Financial claims – Required for resolving debts, taxes, or asset disputes.
How to Find Probate Records?
- Search state probate court databases – Many states offer online access.
- Visit county courthouses – Older records may only be available in person.
- Request certified copies – Some courts require formal applications.
Tip: If the deceased person had no will, intestate succession laws determine inheritance.