Probate, wills and heirs

Probate records may name heirs, spouse, creditors and property. They complement death records and put relationships in context.

The method, step by step

1. Start with death, last residence and known property. Identify the court, notary or administration responsible for the territory and period.
2. Search the index then the complete proceeding or deed. Distinguish will, inventory, distribution and administration without a will.
3. Transcribe explicitly stated relationships. Separate beneficiary, executor and witness: these roles do not all imply kinship.
4. Compare with marriage and death records. Keep drafting, death and proceeding dates separate; locate documents cited in the file.