Filing a petition with the probate court is the initial step in the probate process. The petition formally requests the court to open probate and appoint an executor (if there is a will) or an administrator (if there is no will) to handle the estate administration. The petition provides essential information about the deceased person, such as their name, date of death, and the names of their heirs or beneficiaries. It sets the legal process in motion, allowing the court to oversee the administration of the estate and ensure that all necessary steps are taken to settle the estate according to the applicable laws.