In a legal context, what does “probate court” primarily deal with?

The primary function of a probate court is to oversee the administration of estates after an individual has passed away. This includes validating wills, ensuring that the deceased's assets are distributed according to their wishes, and resolving any disputes that may arise concerning the estate. The court also handles issues related to guardianship for minors and the management of trusts.

While other options refer to different legal matters—such as dispute resolution, which is a broader category that can occur in various courts, and paternity cases, which are typically handled in family court—probate court specifically focuses on the processes associated with inheritance and the handling of deceased individuals' estates. Traffic violations are managed within traffic courts and are unrelated to the functions of probate court. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the unique jurisdiction and responsibilities of a probate court in the legal system.