Once a matter is started with the court, the law requires certain filings to keep the court informed.

What does filing cost?
See the Michigan Probate Fee and Distribution Schedule for a listing of fees.  In general, starting an estate, conservatorship or guardianship is $175.00.  Accounts, motions and petitions are $20.00. Certified Letters of Authority are $12.00 each.

Does the Probate Court accept credit cards?
No.  Lenawee County Probate Court only accepts payments by cash, check, or money order.

How do I know if you've received my documents?
Court staff does not notify individuals when documents are received.  However, if you send one extra copy of the document along with a postage paid return envelope, our staff will date-stamp the copy and return it to you.

How can I get conformed/true copies back from the court?
Conformed/true copies are given by the Circuit Court, not the Probate Court. However, the Probate Court will return date-stamped copies if you provide a postage-paid return envelope and one extra copy of the document with your filing.

What is proper captioning?
Proper captioning means clearly identifying the type of matter.  For example, John Doe, Deceased, or Mary Smith, a protected individual.

Must an "interested person statement" and a "penalties of perjury statement" appear on all petitions/motions/proofs of service?
Yes, according to court rule, petitioners are required to attest to the accuracy of the statements on petitions.  The names and complete addresses of all interested persons or the phrase "interested persons remain the same" must also appear on all petitions.