The process time depends on a variety of factors. First, as you might have already learned from reading our site, there are two types of probate: Formal Administration or Summary Administration.

“Formal admin” is the traditional, longer and more drawn out process. “Summary admin” is shorter and more relegated to smaller estates (although size and value of assets doesn’t necessarily mean your probate case is “smaller”)

Beyond that, the following factors can affect how long a probate proceeding lasts:

- Creditor claims
- Failure of beneficiaries to respond or cooperate with the proceeding
- Inaccuracies in preparing the pleadings and other paperwork
- The local customs and rules in each county probate court
- Ancillary litigation (will contests, creditor’s claims litigation)

If you’ve already hired an attorney, these are questions you really need to ask him or her.

Far be it from me to tell you how his or her office handles probate matters.

Best of luck!

Answer:  A Will directs administration if it directly or indirectly disposes of the property that is the subject of the administration.

I sincerely hope you will reconsider trying to do this yourself.  You will run into many pitfalls and will eventually find you need a lawyer.