As time goes on, and families drift apart, it is not uncommon to see siblings and parents all living in different states, or even different countries. Once someone passes away, in order to prepare the pleadings for the probate court, the petition must provide the full names and mailing addresses of all potential beneficiaries. Often the petition must provide an outline of the relevant family tree. While itís easiest if the petitioner already has the correct contact information, there are certain public records searches which can assist in identifying the correct information.