What types of cases do Probate Courts in Connecticut decide?
In general terms, there are three categories of cases:
1. Cases involving Estates. When someone passes away, the local Probate Court oversees the administration of the estate. The Court will appoint an executor. Beneficiaries will be identified so that property may be distributed pursuant to the decedent’s will. As part of the administration process, the Court also requires creditors to be notified and debts determined. If a decedent dies without a will (intestate), the court may appoint an administrator who will function as an executor would if the decedent had died with a will. The Probate Court also hears will contests and issues involving certain trusts.
2. Cases to protect adults. Unfortunately, there are times where once well functioning adults are no longer capable of managing their financial or personal affairs. In such an instance, the Probate Court has the authority to appoint a conservator of the estate, a conservator of the person or both to protect the interests of the adult. The Probate Court may also committ adults suffering from mental illness or addiction to residential facilities for appropriate treatment.
3. Cases involving the welfare of children. The Probate Court has the authority to remove an unfit parent as the guardian of their child. In cases involving extreme neglect or abuse the Court also may terminate parental rights. If parental rights have been terminated, the Probate Court may grant an adoption.
Stamford and Fairfield Probate Attorney
I represent clients in Connecticut Probate Court proceedings though out Fairfield County including Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Trumbull, Stratford, Bridgeport, Westport, Weston, New Canaan, Wilton, Norwalk, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich.
Please email me or call me in Stamford at (203) 356-1475 or in Fairfield at (203) 259-5251 for a consultation concerning Probate Court issues in Connecticut.