Q: I am trying to understand the difference between a living trust and a will, which must be probated. What does "probate" mean and why is it needed? Are probate laws different in other states? A: OK, ...

Probate is a legal process where a court validates a deceased person's will and ensures that the transfer of ownership to ...

Penny Pryor has more than two decades experience writing, reporting and editing financial services publications. She has contributed to, and edited, the Money Section of the Sun Herald and The Sunday ...