Most, but not all, Wills must go through the probate process. Probate is the process where the courts will decide the validity of a Will. If the Will is determined to be valid, an administrator will be appointed, debts will be settled, assets will be inventoried and real estate appraised. Then assets will be distributed. On average, probate takes six to nine months if the Will is not challenged.
Properties that may not have to go through the probate process:
Property held jointly. In most cases, the property will go to the remaining owner.
Life insurance or assets with designated beneficiaries. Life insurance policies and other assets often have specifically named beneficiaries that may automatically receive their payout.
Property left in a Trust. Property left in a Trust is often available immediately.
Small estates. Sometimes state laws provide an expedited process for small estates.