3 Stages of Probate – inheritancerealty.com

Stage 1

Opening the Estate

This is the legal beginning of probate. A petition is filed with the court to request the appointment of a personal representative (executor or administrator). During this stage, the court reviews the will (if there is one), schedules a hearing, and issues the necessary legal documents called Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration.
These letters give the representative official authority to act on behalf of the estate — including securing the property, ordering the grant deed, managing assets, and beginning the paperwork required by the court.

Stage 2

Administering the Estate

Once letters are issued, the executor or administrator begins carrying out their duties. This includes gathering and valuing assets, notifying creditors, paying valid debts, filing required tax returns, securing insurance, managing property upkeep, and preparing the estate for distribution or sale.
If the estate includes real estate, this is the stage where the representative can sign a 90-day listing agreement to sell the property in compliance with probate rules. This stage usually takes the longest (2–8 months), depending on the complexity and court timelines.

Stage 3

Closing the Estate

After all tasks are completed, the representative submits a final accounting to the court. This includes documenting every expense, payment, and distribution. The court reviews the accounting and issues an order approving the estate to close.
Once approved, the representative distributes the remaining assets to the heirs and beneficiaries. Probate costs, including attorney and executor fees, are paid at this time. The estate is then officially closed.