By definition probate is the legal process for the transfer of assets, real estate, cars, stocks, bonds, boats from the deceased name to his/her estate so they can be transferred to the heirs.
 

A well planned Estate may be the best gift you can give to your loved ones. It avoids aggravations, unnecessary expenses, and delays with court actions.
Probate is a complex way of proving the contents of a will, if one exists, in the transfer of real estate and other assets. It requires publication of the will and expenses, which become public record. Because of the court system and statutory waiting periods, the probate process takes an extended period of time.