Phoenix, AZ estates & probate attorney Carla Miramontes talks about the basics of estate planning her clients need to know. She explains that the basics of probate, which all clients should understand, are not as intimidating as they may seem. Probate is the legal process through which an individual, typically authorized by the court, is empowered to gather a deceased person’s assets—including everything from vehicles to real estate to bank accounts. Once collected, the assets are used to pay any outstanding debts, and the remainder is distributed to the appropriate beneficiaries. If the deceased had a will, distribution follows their wishes; if they did not, the state provides a default plan, usually directing assets to the closest family members.