Step 1
Locate the appropriate Probate Court. In Maine, a will must be admitted to the Probate Court in the county where the testator, or will maker, last lived.
Step 2
Obtain the death certificate. You may obtain the death certificate from the Office of Vital Records or from the town in which the testator died. The Office of Vital Records provides certified copies.
Step 3
Obtain an application for informal probate from the Probate Court. The form is both an application for informal probate and an application for appointment as personal representative. If you were named as personal representative in the will, and you accept, you may indicate that you wish to be appointed as personal representative on the application.
Step 4
Gather information pertaining to the beneficiaries named in the will. The application for informal probate asks for the names and addresses of beneficiaries such as the surviving spouse, children and other heirs.
Step 5
File the application for informal probate with the Register of the Probate Court, along with the original will and death certificate. The Register will notify any beneficiaries or heirs you've listed on the application once it is filed.
Step 6
Pay the filing fees. Filing fees vary; speak to the Register of the Probate Court to determine the correct amount.
