A probate petition is a legal document filed in court to initiate the process of administering a deceased person's estate. This process ensures that the deceased's assets are distributed according to their wishes, typically outlined in a will. If there is no will, the estate is distributed according to state laws. The probate petition usually includes information about the deceased, their assets, and the proposed executor or administrator of the estate. Once filed, the court reviews the petition, and if approved, the executor can begin managing the estate, paying debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries.