Just the Facts
for Genealogy Researchers
Where There's a Will, There Might be a Probate
There are three types of wills: Attested, Holographic, and Nuncupative. The attested will is the most common and is prepared for the testator. A holographic will is written by the testator himself. A nuncupative will are the deathbed wishes of the testator, recorded by a witness present at the bedside. All wills must be witnessed. A person who died intestate died without a will.
Probate records refer to wills inventories, letters of administration and guardianship. They are usually held at the county courthouse unless archived. When doing research in probate records, request to see the entire file.
An executor is named by the testator and is required by the court to post a bond. An administrator is appointed to handle the affairs of one who dies intestate (without a will).
A widow's dower is her claim to a portion of her deceased husband's estate during her lifetime for her and her children's support.