Larger to extremely large Estates (in Missouri, over $40,000.00 in value or much more) are handled though a full probate process. Any and all assets owned by a decedent at death not otherwise distributed by certain non-probate procedures (such as to beneficiaries of life insurance, financial accounts, retirement accounts, etc.) are included. These Estates may follow a decedent's directions set forth in his or her Will, or if there is no Will, state law will direct how the Estate is to be distributed.
Probate of full Estates such as these can be complex, as numerous, detailed state statutes must be strictly observed. Full Estates also have extended time frames, based upon these state statutes.