The basic probate steps are generally taken by rote. The "Executor" or "Executrix" (whomever was appointed the deceased's Personal Representative) prepares a "Petition for Probate" for the court through a probate attorney who files it with the probate court. The lawyer managing the Will admitted to probate should notify all those who would have legally been entitled to receive property from the deceased if the deceased died without a Will as well as those named in the Will. This is the period during probate where parties have an opportunity to file an objection in terms of admitting the Will to probate.

Depending on the particulars associated with the Will, it is occasionally compulsory to bring back the party or parties who witnessed the deceased's signature on the Will, for verification. The probate petition hearing is set for weeks or even months after the probate is filed. If there are no objections voiced regarding the Will and the details in the Will appear to be regular and in order, the court approves the petition, appoints the Personal Representative, levies instructions on how creditors will be paid, how taxes will be paid, and covers details concerning how the Personal Representative is to file reports with the probate court with respect to the deceased's property, cash, and. Assets; as well as final distribution of the above - in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Will.