(a) Judicial probate is a proceeding instituted by: (1) The filing of a petition for probate by an interested person, or creditor, with the court for the probate of a will; or (2) A determination of the intestacy of the decedent, and for the appointment of a personal representative. (b) The proceeding is conducted after notice as provided in § 5–403 of this subtitle, and is final except as provided in § 5–406 of this subtitle. (c) If no petition is filed within a reasonable time the register may file it with the approval of the court.
Maryland Legal Code