Find Henry County Probate Court Records
Henry County Probate Court Records are maintained for all probate matters in this fast-growing Atlanta metro county. The Probate Court in McDonough handles wills, estates, guardianships, and marriage licenses for over 240,000 residents. You can search Henry County Probate Court Records through online portals or by visiting the courthouse. This guide shows you how to access these public records in Henry County.
Henry County Quick Facts
Henry County Probate Court
The Henry County Probate Court serves one of Georgia's fastest-growing counties. Located in McDonough, the court handles a high volume of probate cases. The Probate Judge oversees estate administration, guardianships, and other matters.
Henry County was established in 1821 and named for Patrick Henry, the famous orator and Revolutionary War patriot. The county is part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. It has experienced rapid growth in recent decades. The Probate Court has adapted to serve the increasing population.
| Address |
Henry County Courthouse 1 Courthouse Square McDonough, GA 30253 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (770) 288-7600 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| County Seat | McDonough |
Henry County Probate Records Search
You can search Henry County Probate Court Records through several methods. The county offers modern access options for residents.
In-person searches are available at the courthouse in McDonough. The Probate Court office is located on Courthouse Square. Staff can assist with record searches. Bring identification and relevant case information. Copies are available for a per-page fee.
The Georgia Probate Records portal may include Henry County records. This online system allows searching from home. Check the portal for participating counties and available record types.
Mail requests are accepted for record copies. Submit a written request with case details. Include payment and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Contact the court for current copy fees.
For efficient searching, gather key information before you start. Have the full name of the person involved. Know approximate dates of death or filing. Case numbers speed up the process significantly.
Types of Henry County Probate Court Records
Henry County Probate Court maintains various record types. Each serves a specific legal purpose.
Wills and estate records are the primary probate documents. When someone dies, their will is filed with the court. The court validates the will and supervises estate administration. Estate records include petitions, inventories, and accountings.
Guardianship cases protect minors and incapacitated adults. The court appoints guardians to make personal care decisions. Conservators manage financial assets. Annual reports track the ward's well-being and finances.
Marriage licenses are issued by the Probate Court. Henry County issues hundreds of marriage licenses each year. Records include applications and certified licenses.
Weapons carry licenses are processed by the court. Applications include background checks. These records have privacy protections under Georgia law.
- Wills and testaments
- Estate administration files
- Guardianship petitions
- Conservatorship records
- Marriage licenses
- Weapons carry licenses
- Traffic citations (if no State Court)
Estate Administration Process in Henry County
Probate cases in Henry County follow Georgia law. The process ensures proper estate distribution.
First, file the will with the Probate Court. Use standard Georgia forms for initial filings. Form GPCSF 4 petitions for common form probate. Form GPCSF 5 petitions for solemn form probate.
Solemn form probate binds immediately. All heirs must receive notice. Common form probate requires no notice. However, it is not binding for four years.
The personal representative manages the estate. They gather assets and pay debts. The representative files inventories and accountings with the court. Final distribution follows court approval.
Year's support petitions must be filed within 24 months. The surviving spouse or minor children's guardian may file. This claim takes priority over other estate claims.
Note: Filing fees vary by case type. Contact Henry County Probate Court for current costs.
Legal Help for Henry County Probate Matters
Several resources assist with probate issues. Henry County residents have access to state and local help.
Georgia Legal Aid provides free online information. Guides explain probate procedures in simple terms. Self-help forms are available for download.
The Council of Probate Court Judges offers educational videos. Topics include estate administration and guardianship. Videos are in English and Spanish.
Court staff can answer procedural questions. They cannot provide legal advice or complete forms. Consult an attorney for legal guidance.
Henry County attorneys handle probate cases regularly. Many offer initial consultations. The State Bar of Georgia provides lawyer referral services.
Nearby Counties
These counties border Henry County. File probate cases in the proper county based on residency.