Are wills public information?

Question

I know someone who is going through a bitter divorce. Thinks spouse is entitled to large inheritance at a certain age. This would effect alimony. Anyway of finding out?

Answer 1

It is possible that a large inheritance is looming and your friend may be able to attach it as community property, but the will itself is not public information.  

Answer 2

A will becomes public once the person dies and the will is submitted to the probate court.  If the person is still alive, it is not public and no one is entitled to anything as the will can be changed at any time.

Answer 3

All he can do is tell his attorney who will request the probate information through discovery.   If he knows the probate court location that finalized the estate he can contact them and ask what is public record of the estate proceedings.