The Probate Court may oversee the division of property of someone who has died. This property is called a decedent's estate.The Probate Referee determines the value of the decedent's estate, but may not be needed if the decedent only owned assets that are cash-based. The process of claiming a bank account after death varies based on a number of factors. Here's how to claim a deceased person's bank accounts. Simply visit your financial institutions and request that you want a POD designation on your accounts. Most bank accounts can pass directly to beneficiaries, without the need for probate or the court's intervention. You will be presented with a form to complete, which will have you identify the persons whom you want to receive the account balances upon your death. You might be able to fill out an affidavit and present that along with your mom's death certificate to the bank. Plan and draft a Living Trust.