Probate Court

Mission

The Mission of the Franklin County Probate Court is to administer justice with fairness, equality, and integrity,to resolve matters before the court in a timely manner, and to provide courteous and prompt service that is impartial, professional, and fiscally responsible.

Court Jurisdiction

Franklin County Probate Court exercises exclusive, original jurisdiction in the probate of wills, administration of estates, the appointment of guardians (minor and adult), and involuntary hospitalization of incapacitated adults and other individuals. Records that date back to the late 1800s are retained in the court vault.

Probate Judge

The Probate Judge administers oaths of office and issues marriage and firearms licenses. The court has the authority to hold habeas corpus hearings or preside over criminal preliminary hearings. Unless a jury trial is requested, the probate court handles certain misdemeanors, traffic cases, and violations of state game and fish laws. The Probate Judge also serves as the Vital Records custodian of the County and issues Birth and Death Certificates.