Probate (with a Will)

When a person dies (also called a decedent) having drafted a valid will, the will is usually offered for probate by the individual who is named in the will as the executor. The process of probating a will is the formal process that officially appoints the nominated executor to handle the distribution of the decedent's property.

The will is probated in the Probate Court of the county in which the decedent was domiciled at death.

Documents Required to File

  • Access the petition
  • Original Will
  • Death Certificate

Court Costs

  • Deposit: $165**

Other Circumstances

If an individual who is not named as the executor or alternate executor is going to probate the will, then they will need to file a different petition from the one above. Please call the court's estate number for further instruction. 

Even if the will is not going to be probated, anyone who is in possession of the will of an individual who has died must bring the will to the Probate Court for filing.


**Additional fees may be required for legal notices and service of process. There will also be a balance of court costs due at the oath hearing.
Contact Us

Estates:
706-225-4333
probategeneral@columbusga.org

Weapons Carry Licenses/Marriage Licenses:
706-225-4750
probatelicense@columbusga.org

Physical Address:
100 10th St. 6th Floor
Columbus, GA 31901

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 1340
Columbus, GA 31902