The first step of a spousal property petition is to prepare and file the Spousal Petition. After the petition is filed, the court clerk will set a hearing date. There is no publication required, but the Petitioner must mail notification to all interested parties such as the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate, and any other beneficiaries. Due to the straightforward nature of the petition, there is usually only one hearing required. At the hearing, the Judge will issue an order detailing the court’s findings on the property involved.  The process can be completed in 2-3 months.