When a person dies, their assets are not automatically passed down to their beneficiaries. In most cases, there has to be a legal process in place that ensures debts are settled and assets are distributed accordingly. These legal processes in place are either administration or probate; two words that are often confused but mean two very different things.

Knowledge of the difference will make life simpler and save both time and money for the family.

What is Probate?

When a person dies with a valid will, a probate process takes place.

The will names:

  • The beneficiaries (who inherits)
  • The executor (who manages the estate)

During probate, the court:

  • Confirms the will is valid
  • Gives the executor legal authority to act
  • Oversees payment of debts and taxes
  • Approves distribution of assets according to the will

Probate makes sure that the last wishes of the deceased are fulfilled and that the beneficiaries are not left with disputes in future.

What Is Administration?

Administration is relevant when a person dies intestate, which is another way of describing someone who dies without a will.

As there is no executor named in this will, the court:

  • Appoints an administrator who could be the spouse, child, or close relative
  • Determines inheritance based on state intestate laws
  • Manages the allocation of assets according to legal priority, not one’s wishes

Administration may be more complicated since:

  • Family members might have different opinions regarding the distribution of assets.
  • The court exercises stronger control over judicial decisions
  • The procedure may be longer than probate with a will.

Why the Difference Matters

The difference between probate and administration affects:

  • How long the process takes
  • Who controls decisions
  • Who inherits assets
  • The total cost of settling the estate

Many families only realize these differences after facing delays or legal challenges—especially when no will exists.

Often, the knowledge of these differences occurs only when a family is faced with delays or legal disputes—especially in the absence of a will.

How a Probate & Administration Specialist Can Help

Whether an estate requires probate or administration, professional guidance is critical. A specialist helps with:

  • Court filings and legal documentation
  • Executor or administrator appointments
  • Creditor notifications and debt settlement
  • Asset valuation and lawful distribution
  • Reducing delays and avoiding costly mistakes

This is especially important in cases involving:

  • Multiple heirs
  • Missing beneficiaries
  • Out-of-state family members
  • Older or complex estates

Get Help from Angelique Friend

Angelique Friend provides both probate and estate administration services, helping families navigate the process with clarity, compliance, and care.

Whether you’re dealing with:

  • A will that needs probate
  • An estate with no will requiring administration
  • Or an inheritance that has been delayed for years

Angelique ensures the estate is handled efficiently, legally, and with minimal stress for all involved.

Final Thoughts

Probate and administration serve the same purpose—settling an estate—but the presence or absence of a will makes all the difference. Knowing which process applies to your situation is the first step toward resolving an estate smoothly.

If you’re unsure which path applies or need help moving forward, working with an experienced probate and administration specialist can make the process far less overwhelming