Keep me logged in until I sign out. This creates a number of problems that are discussed below. The probate process. When a person dies, a legal process called probate takes place.
Probate involves a series of court proceedings that supervise the distribution of an estate.
If a person dies intestate, state law governs to whom his or her estate will be distributed. For example, in some states, if you die without a spouse, your child or closest relative will receive 100 percent of your estate. Additionally, a judge will appoint a stranger as executor to oversee the administration of your estate, and that person may receive large fees for his or her work. That person may not have the interests of your family at heart. Obviously, it is better for you to choose the executor before your death, as well as have your assets distributed according to your stated wishes.