When dad died from a long battle with cancer I being the oldest son was named in his is to handle his affairs.  They call my position executor and I am supposed to liquidate and distribute all of Dad’s stuff to the other family members as per he stated in his will.  It looks like I have to deal with probate but my question is:  Is probate necessary.  Can anyone answer this probate question.  I read some where that it may take up to 9 months to complete the estate settlement process. I just don’t know enough about the whole matter.  I guess I will have to find a probate attorney. I have no idea how to find a probate attorney.