Probate refers to the process of distributing a deceased persons money and property.

Some people use a "revocable living trust" to provide for distribution and avoid probate.

Where deceased people have died without a trust, a probate proceeding is necessary to get the property distributed.

Any interested family member or other person can petition for probate or conservatorship.

The court looks to the deceased persons Will to determine how to distribute.

The court looks to the law of succession to determine how to distribute if there is no Will.