Mo. Rev. Stat. § 473.073: Proof required for probate and grant of administration.

1. On the presentation and proof of a will to the clerk or court, if the clerk or court finds that the testator is dead and that the will was executed in all respects according to law, and does not find that the will was revoked, the will shall be admitted to probate as the last will of the testator.

2. On an application for letters, the clerk or court shall determine whether the deceased died testate or intestate and grant letters accordingly or on proper grounds, may deny the application.