Generally, the waiting period for distribution of assets in a probate estate is 6 to 8 months after death. Assets must be liquidated in probate. This is a half truth. Assets are only liquidated in order to pay taxes or creditors. This is also done under a living trust if necessary.
Probate litigation is expensive.
There is no need to expect litigation under either a will or a trust. Both the will or trust can be challenged by an unhappy heir and similar tax and valuation issues can arise under a will or trust. Federal and state taxes are high in probate. This is also a half truth because estate tax planning can be done under both a will or a trust. Complex probate proceedings require special court approval to take actions.