The Probate Courts have often been called "the people's courts" because they offer simple, direct access to legal proceedings. Convenience and efficiency are the hallmarks of the Probate Courts. Connecticut's 54 Probate Courts are organized on a regional basis to provide convenient access for court users. Because probate cases involve sensitive family issues, the atmosphere at hearings is informal. The judge will give each person who is a party to the case an opportunity to present evidence in support of his or her side of the case.
Customer service is the highest priority of the Probate Courts. However, court employees are limited in the type of assistance they can provide.
This is a list of things the Probate Court staff is UNABLE to do for you:
Individuals involved in probate cases have the option of hiring an attorney but are not generally required to be represented by an attorney. Probate Court forms are designed to be user-friendly, and court staff may offer limited assistance in completing required forms. A person should consider hiring an attorney if the case is contested or if the case involves complex legal questions.
In certain types of cases the court is required by law to appoint an attorney for a party whose fundamental civil liberties are at stake. This requirement applies only in the following cases;
The court does not have the authority to appoint an attorney for a party in other types of cases.
The Council on Probate Judicial Conduct is responsible for investigating complaints about probate judges. Click on the following link to access the Council's webpage: Council on Probate Judicial Conduct
Click on the following link for information about court fees for probate cases: Probate Fees and Expenses
Click on the following link for answers to frequently asked questions about conservator compensation: Conservator FAQs