Probate Appointments

In order to probate (put to record) a will and to qualify an executor or administrator of a decedent's estate, you must appear in the Circuit Court Clerk's Office in the city in which the decedent resided at the time of death. Probate matters are normally handled by appointment. Appointments generally last approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

Scheduling a Probate Appointment

Please fax the will and death certificate to the attention of the Circuit Court clerk's Office at (804) 524-8726. Include a cover sheet that contains contact information so that a staff member may contact you as soon as possible after reviewing the will. Do not write on the will itself.

Alternative Submission

If you do not have access to a fax machine and / or if there was no will, please call the Circuit Court Clerk's Office at (804) 520-9364. If a will exists, please have it in hand when contacting the office so that certain legal requirements can be confirmed over the phone.

Personal Representative Responsibilities

It is important to keep in mind that the personal representative (executor or administrator) of an estate is charged by law with numerous responsibilities. It is the legal obligation of the personal representative to fully understand and discharge their required duties. Further details may be obtained from the Circuit Court Clerk and the city’s Commissioner of Accounts. Your attorney and accountant can provide assistance as well.

Forms

Many forms relating to estate matters are made available through the Supreme Court of Virginia website.

FAQs

Find answers to will and estate administration FAQs.