What does "letters probate" signify in estate management?

"Letters probate" signifies the confirmation of a will's validity, making it a crucial legal document in estate management. When a will is submitted to the court and granted letters probate, it serves as legal proof that the will is valid and enforceable according to the laws governing wills and estates. This process typically involves the examination of the will to ensure it meets all legal requirements, such as being properly signed and witnessed.

Once letters probate are issued, the named executor is granted the authority to act on behalf of the deceased’s estate, allowing them to carry out the terms of the will, administer the estate, and distribute assets to beneficiaries. This step is essential because, without this confirmation, the executor does not have the legal right to manage the estate's affairs or deal with the deceased's assets.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the purpose of letters probate. The authority to contest a will pertains to individuals who may believe a will is invalid but does not relate directly to the concept of letters probate. While authorization to sell property may occur post-probate, it is not the primary function of letters probate. Additionally, the completion of tax obligations is part of the estate administration process but does not specifically relate to the confirmation of a will's