Which type of court deals primarily with wills and the estates of deceased individuals?

Probate court is specifically designed to handle matters related to the administration of wills and the estates of deceased individuals. The primary function of probate court is to ensure that the deceased's wishes, as expressed in their will, are carried out in accordance with the law. This includes the validation of wills, the appointment of executors or administrators to manage the estate, and the distribution of assets to beneficiaries.

These proceedings may also involve the oversight of guardianship matters for minor children, but the central focus remains on the actual process of settling the deceased's affairs. The court's jurisdiction allows it to resolve disputes that may arise over the validity of a will, the interpretation of its provisions, or claims against the estate. Moreover, probate courts are where individuals can challenge the distribution planned in the will or other estate-related decisions.

In contrast, criminal courts deal with offenses against the state and the prosecution of criminal activities, civil courts handle non-criminal legal disputes between individuals or entities, and family courts focus on issues related to family law, such as divorce, custody, and support. Therefore, the specific role of probate court in managing wills and estates clearly distinguishes it from these other types of courts.