Probate. It’s one of those legal words you don’t think about—until you have to. If you’ve just lost a loved one in Indiana and are staring at their will wondering, “Do I need a lawyer for this?”—you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and the answer isn’t always black and white.

Let’s break it down: what probate actually is, what Indiana law says about needing an attorney, and when hiring a lawyer is more than just helpful—it’s essential.

Losing a loved one is emotionally difficult—and navigating the legal process that follows can be just as overwhelming. Probate, the court-supervised process of distributing a deceased person’s estate, often adds legal, financial, and emotional stress to an already challenging time.

In Indiana, probate ensures that debts are paid, assets are properly distributed, and the decedent’s wishes—if a will exists—are honored. While the process is meant to provide structure, it can quickly become complicated and drawn-out if mistakes are made along the way.

Death is messy—probate doesn’t have to be. If you’re wondering what happens to an estate in Indiana, you’re not alone. Probate is how the court wraps up someone’s financial life—validating wills, paying off debts, and transferring what’s left to heirs. But here’s the thing: not every estate needs it. Some estates breeze through shortcuts. Others get stuck in court for months. In this guide, we’ll break down when probate is required in Indiana, when you can avoid it, and how smart planning can save your family time, stress, and money.