Last Writes: A Blog About Death and Grief

"Last Writes" is Good Grief’s blog dedicated to navigating death, grief, and everything in between — offering candid conversations, practical advice, and reflections to help people face loss with a little more clarity and a little less fear.

Iceland, Black and white photo of a river flowing through a landscape with grass and rocks, and waterfalls in the distance, with mountains in the background under a cloudy sky.

The US grieves 2.4m people each year. Let’s talk about it.

Carrie Costa 9/1/25 Carrie Costa 9/1/25

Probate FAQ: What It Is, How It Works, and How to Avoid It

Probate can be confusing, costly, and time-consuming. This FAQ breaks down what probate is, when you need it, how long it takes, and ways to avoid it—so you know what to expect and how to plan ahead.

How Long Does Probate Take?

Probate length depends on the estate, state laws, and whether there’s a valid will. It can wrap up in weeks or drag on for years. Here’s what impacts the timeline, the steps involved, and strategies to make probate faster—or avoid it altogether.