Lowndes County Probate Court Records Database
Lowndes County Probate Court Records are maintained in Valdosta, Georgia, for this major south Georgia county. The Probate Court handles wills, estates, guardianships, and marriage licenses for over 120,000 residents. Judge Burke Sherwood serves as the Probate Judge. You can search Lowndes County Probate Court Records by visiting the courthouse or using online resources. This guide explains how to find these public records in Lowndes County.
Lowndes County Quick Facts
Lowndes County Probate Court
The Lowndes County Probate Court serves one of south Georgia's largest counties. The court is located in Valdosta, the county seat. Judge Burke Sherwood took office in January 2025 as the Probate Judge.
Lowndes County was created in 1825 and named for William Jones Lowndes, a South Carolina statesman. Valdosta is a major commercial and educational center in south Georgia, home to Valdosta State University. The Probate Court serves a diverse urban and rural population.
| Address |
Lowndes County Courthouse 327 N. Ashley Street Valdosta, GA 31601 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (229) 671-2650 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Probate Judge | Burke Sherwood (elected January 2025) |
Lowndes County Probate Court Records
The Probate Court maintains comprehensive records. Documents are available for public inspection.
Wills and estate records form the bulk of probate filings. The court validates wills and oversees estate administration. Records include probate petitions, inventories, and final accountings.
Guardianship cases protect vulnerable individuals. The court appoints guardians for minors and incapacitated adults. Conservators manage finances. Annual reports document the ward's status.
Marriage licenses are issued daily. Both parties must appear with valid identification. Licenses are valid throughout Georgia.
Weapons carry licenses require background checks. Applications are processed through the Probate Court. New licenses and renewals are both handled.
- Wills and probate records
- Estate administration files
- Guardianship petitions
- Conservatorship documents
- Marriage license records
- Weapons carry licenses
- Traffic citations
How to Access Lowndes County Probate Records
Records are available through multiple channels. Choose the method that fits your needs.
Visit the Valdosta courthouse for in-person access. The Probate Court office provides record searches. Staff assist with locating files. Copies cost per page.
The Georgia Probate Records portal offers online searching. Check if Lowndes County participates. Search from home convenience.
Mail requests require written application. Include case details and payment. Add a self-addressed stamped envelope.
Note: Some guardianship records involving minors may be confidential under Georgia law.
Filing Probate Cases in Lowndes County
Probate filings follow Georgia procedures. Proper filing ensures timely processing.
Venue rules require filing in the proper county. File where the deceased lived. Georgia Code Title 53 governs probate law.
Standard forms are required for initial filings. The Supreme Court of Georgia provides these forms. GPCSF forms cover common probate needs.
Filing fees vary by petition type. Minimum deposits are required. Full payment precedes case closure.
Legal Resources for Lowndes County Residents
Several organizations provide probate assistance. Resources help navigate the system.
Georgia Legal Aid offers free online resources. Guides explain probate procedures. Self-help materials assist with forms.
The Council of Probate Court Judges provides educational videos. Topics cover will probate and guardianship.
Valdosta attorneys handle probate cases regularly. Many offer initial consultations. Local lawyers know Lowndes County procedures.
Nearby Counties
These counties border Lowndes County. File in the correct jurisdiction.