Are there any advantages of probate?

Advocates of probate argue that because probate proceedings are held in open court, it benefits potential heirs by providing everyone equal access to information contained in the probate record. They also argue that court supervision of the probate process benefits society by providing an orderly way of wrapping up a decedent’s estate. They further argue that additional benefits exist in that institutions dealing with probate court orders recognize them as binding, that rights of lost heirs are severed, that claims not timely filed can be legally barred, and that the estate may pursue any litigation deemed necessary.