Surrogate's Court
Surrogate's Court is a specialized court in the United States that handles matters related to estates, wills, and trusts. It primarily deals with the probate process, which is the legal procedure for validating a deceased person's will and distributing their assets. This court also addresses issues like guardianship for minors and the administration of estates when someone dies without a will.
In New York, for example, Surrogate's Court is responsible for appointing executors or administrators to manage estates. The court ensures that the deceased's wishes are honored and that beneficiaries receive their rightful inheritance. It plays a crucial role in resolving disputes related to wills and estates.