Good question. If the estate requires a probate proceeding, then you will likely need an attorney to help you with the process - although it is something you could possibly do on your own with some research and confidence. If the estate does not require a probate proceeding, then you will not need to go through the probate process; however, you may need an attorney's advice as to whether probate is necessary. In any event, you are correct that a Will does not take the place of probate, it merely describes how you desire to dispose of your assets.
Answered on Aug 11th, 2014 at 1:42 PM