probate court

American  

noun

1. a special court with power over administration of estates of deceased persons, the probate of wills, etc.

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probate court Cultural  

1. A court that has jurisdiction over wills, estates, and guardianship of children.

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Etymology

Origin of probate court

An Americanism dating back to 1720–30

Example Sentences

As he died without a will, his apartment manager wouldn’t allow us to retrieve his artwork until a probate court designated an estate executor.

From MarketWatch

What’s more, the probate court can temporarily suspend your brother from any further actions that could further erode the funds within the trust.

From MarketWatch

When your stepgrandmother’s widower files probate, assuming he files probate, feel free to contact the probate court with your questions about her IRA.

From MarketWatch

If he did not appoint an administrator or executor of his estate, the probate court will appoint one, typically giving priority to a living spouse.

From MarketWatch

“If you lack legal standing to contest a will, the judge in the New York probate court will not hear your petition to contest the will.”

From MarketWatch