There is no rule saying how long a probate must take.
From Weeks to Months
In some cases it is possible to complete a probate in a matter of weeks. In many cases it may be advisable to provide notice and opportunity for creditors to file claims with the estate. In these cases it is normal to wait at least four months to see if any creditor claims are submitted.
Taxable Estates
If the estate is large enough to be taxable, the probate may take several months to more than a year to conclude.
Ultimately, the length of time for a given probate will depend on the specific facts of a given case and what benefits of a probate the family may wish to take advantage of.
Douglas N. Kiger, Attorney at Law
Blado Kiger Bolan, Tacoma, Wash.