Glossary

Probate is the legal procedure of processing a deceased person’s estate (with or without a will).

In Connecticut, the probate court also oversees the appointment of conservators and guardians and facilitates legal name changes. 

Although on a case-to-case basis, generally during the probate process, the following actions take place: 

• Appoint an administrator or executor.

• Preserve assets. 

• Retitle possessions. 

• File estate inventory.

• Settle debts on claims made against the estate.

• Submit tax returns.

• Complete a final accounting or financial report. 

• Distribute assets to specified beneficiaries. 

If the deceased had a will, the probate process proves the will to the satisfaction of the court — a judicial procedure by which a testamentary document is confirmed valid. 

After the court confirms the will is satisfactory, the appointed administrator or executor carries out the specific terms and wishes as stated within the will. 

If someone does not have a will upon death, their assets are deemed “intestate.” 

Since there is no documentation to direct a probate judge regarding estate beneficiaries or control in intestate cases, the state law dictates the deceased’s asset distribution. 

By the conclusion of the probate process, all the deceased’s assets should be distributed, and all debts and taxes should be paid.