Probate with a Will

Submitted by [user:field_first_name]

Probate is the process of dividing someone's assets after their death. When someone has a will, there is a three-step process:

Step 1: Start the Case

You have the choice of administering the estate informally (most common) or formally.

Learn More: How to Start an Informal Process

  • Most common.
  • Less supervision by the Court.
  • Most people use this process when there are no disputes with:

The will; or

Who will be the Personal Representative.

Learn More: How to Start a Formal Process

  • The Court will approve decisions to administer the estate.
  • Often used when the will, or who will be the personal representative, is in dispute.

Step 2: Administer the Estate

The Personal Representative will work to divide the assets of the estate.

Learn More: What does the Personal Representative do?

Step 3: Close the Estate

Once the estate has been administered, the Personal Representative has two options:

  1. Close the Estate Informally
    • Most common.
  2. Close the Estate Formally.
    • Less common.
    • Use this process with a supervised estate; 
    • The Personal Representative can request this process; or
    • It can be ordered by the Court.

Need More Help?

Use our contact options to locate courts, legal services, attorneys, legal clinics, libraries and legal events in your area and around Colorado.

Contact Options