what goes through probate 
probate is usually necessary for property that is titled only in the name of the person who passes away for example that might include a car or real estate it s also usually necessary for an interest in any property that is owned as tenants in common 42here are some of the assets that don t need to be probated according to legal information expert alllaw the probate court processa formal probate process involves specific usually straightforward steps issues that may arise during the process can lengthen the time it lasts until it is closed by the court an informal probate process also called summary probate that requires less court oversight can be used if the estate is small the will is simple all parties are in agreement with it and no objections are raised the will and death certificate still must be filed in this instance 