To afford all who are interested an opportunity to be present at the "hearing," the notice must be published for a prescribed time, and in some states each of the heirs must, if possible, be personally notified.
3.

_Hearing the proofs._ At the time specified in the notice, unless postponement be granted for cause, the proofs of the validity of the will are presented.

It must be shown that the testator is dead, that the instrument was executed by him voluntarily, in the manner prescribed by statute, and while he was of "sound mind and disposing memory." Usually it will be sufficient for the two witnesses to the instrument to appear and testify to the material facts.

If any one interested in the distribution of the property thinks that this will should not be accepted as the "last will and testament" of the deceased, he should now enter objections.

In case of a contest, the proceedings are about the same as those in a justice or circuit court; but there is no jury in the probate court, nor is there any plea except the petition.
4.