probate

https://assetprotectionstrategiespulse.northcrestbrief.com/posts/practical-asset-protection-strategies-for-business-owners-and-families

Probate is the court-supervised process of validating a will and distributing a deceased person's assets. It can be lengthy and public, often involving paperwork, appraisals, and creditor notifications. Many people try to avoid it through trusts or other estate planning tools. It's a legal hurdle that ensures debts are paid and heirs get what's left, but it can also be a stressful maze for families already grieving.