Formal probate is used when there are complexities or disputes about the will, potential heirs, or the estate’s administration. It’s a more involved process requiring court supervision, hearings, and potential litigation to resolve disputes.

Informal probate is designed for straightforward cases where there is no dispute regarding the will or potential heirs. It’s a simplified and expedited procedure handled primarily by filing documents with the court.

Small estate administration is used when the assets to the estate is valued at less than $100,000 and there is no real estate owned by the decedent. This involves filing an affidavit with the court and the court’s involvement is generally limited.

Summary administration is a faster and less expensive process for distributing an estate when there is a surviving spouse. This form of probate is available when the surviving spouse is the sole beneficiary of the estate.

This form of probate is needed when the main probate is being held in another state, but where there is real estate or other property in Idaho that needs to be handled by an Idaho court.

Intestate means a person died without a will. When this occurs, Idaho has laws which govern how a decedent’s estate is divided among their heirs, such as their spouse and children.