State of Connecticut Judicial Branch
West Hartford Probate Court

Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Are your Probate forms the same as another Probate Court?

Yes, all Probate Courts use the same forms. You can get them at any Probate Court or download them from the internet as shown on our home page.

Is there still a Succession Tax in Connecticut?

Yes, although it is being phased out and will be eliminated entirely. We do not collect the tax nor receive any portion thereof. You should contact your tax advisor or the department of Revenue Services for more information.

Do we have to attend the hearing?

In many cases, state law requires that you get notice and attend. In many cases, however, the judge may excuse you. It is a good habit to check first.

When do I file my account for a conservatorship, trust or guardianship?

Accounts must be filed annually with the Court. Generally, a hearing is held on the first account and then every third year thereafter.

Do both fiduciaries have to sign all documents?

Yes

What is the "streamline process"?

Notice of an application is sent to all interested parties, a decree date is set and included in the notice. Generally, attendance is excused from the hearing unless an interested party requests a hearing.

Do we have to use an attorney?

This is difficult to answer because each matter is different and the degree of difficulty can be different. For most routine matters, the clerks can assist you in preparing the necessary paperwork. They cannot, however, give legal advice or opinion. In that case, it is best to consult with an attorney.

What is the difference between a voluntary and involuntary conservatorship?

In a voluntary matter, the petitioner is the one who wants the conservator. He/she must attend the hearing or the Judge will go to his/her place of residence to hold the hearing. The petitioner can revoke it. In the involuntary matter, the petitioner must supply the Court with a physician' s evaluation, as well as a conservator' s memo and the petitioner cannot revoke the conservatorship.

PLEASE NOTE: This is a short simple definition to what could be a complex matter.


For more frequently asked questions, visit the State of Connecticut Judicial Branch site.