Which one of the following is a characteristic of probate?

The correct choice highlights that one characteristic of probate is that it is often a costly and complex process. Probate refers to the legal procedure involved in administering a deceased person's estate, which includes validating the deceased's will, if one exists, and ensuring that debts are settled and assets are distributed according to the will or state laws if there is no will.

The complexity of probate arises from the legal requirements that must be met, the need to appraise estate assets, settle debts, and potentially navigate disputes among beneficiaries or heirs. Additionally, since probate can involve court fees, attorney fees, and other costs, it is typically a more expensive undertaking than transferring assets outside of probate.

The other choices do not accurately describe characteristics of probate. A nonspringing durable power of attorney involves a different legal concept regarding the management of a person's affairs while they are alive, not the post-death handling of their estate. The notion of a quick and easy transfer of assets contradicts the nature of probate, which can often be time-consuming and complicated. Lastly, while a will is validated during the probate process, this validation is not automatic and can be contested, making it a misleading description of this aspect of probate.