Probate is the legal process that takes place after someone passes away. It involves proving that their will is valid, identifying and valuing their assets, paying any debts or taxes, and making sure the remaining property goes to the right people. If there is no will, the court follows state laws to decide who gets what. Probate can take time and may involve court fees, so some people use tools like trusts or beneficiary designations to help their assets pass outside of probate and more directly to their loved ones.