Which term refers to the legal process of determining the validity of a will?

The correct answer is probate because it specifically refers to the legal process through which a will is assessed to determine its validity, allowing for the decedent's assets to be distributed according to their wishes as outlined in the will. During probate, the court reviews the will, addresses any claims against the estate, validates the document, and oversees the administration of the estate, ensuring that debts are paid and remaining assets are distributed to heirs or beneficiaries as intended.

In contrast, intestacy involves situations where a person dies without a valid will, leading to state laws dictating how their assets are distributed. Trustee appointment deals with the selection of an individual or organization that will manage trust assets for beneficiaries, which is separate from the process of validating a will. Estate settlement generally refers to the overall conclusion of the estate administration process, including distribution of assets but does not specifically indicate the legal validation of a will. Thus, probate correctly describes the process of confirming the validity of a will.