Probate is necessary to give the person authorized by law (whether in the Decedent’s will or, if there is no will, then under Tennessee law) legal authority to deal with the Decedent’s probate assets. Such person is referred to as an - executor - , - administrator - , or - personal representative - . A will is not effective until a judge determines it is valid. Once validated and a probate estate is opened with the court, the executor or administrator has the authority and duty to take control of and safeguard the assets of the Decedent’s estate. Probate then provides a process for the payment of outstanding debts, taxes, and the expenses of administration, and for the distribution of the remainder of the estate to the beneficiaries and heirs.