How Do I File Probate in Cobb County, Georgia?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Probate Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
Probate cases in Cobb County are filed at the Probate Court. File in person during business hours or by mail.
Filings here are routed through Firearms License and Marriage License. Confirm with the office which intake handles the petition type you're filing.
Your Filing Options
How to File Your Documents
Paper Filing Available
You can file your probate documents in person at the court or by mail.
Can You File Without an Attorney?
Not every estate requires an attorney. Factors like estate size, asset types, and whether beneficiaries agree can determine if self-filing at the Probate Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Cobb County Self-Filing Assessment.
Cobb County Filing Requirements
These are specific requirements for filing probate in this county. Following these guidelines will help avoid delays or rejected filings.
Before You File
License Division closes at 4:30 PM.
Other Requirements
Lobby renovation underway beginning March 2026; court remains operational during renovation.
In-Person Filing
The Probate Court is located at 32 Waddell Street, Marietta, GA 30090. Phone: 770-528-1900. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (License Division closes 4:30 PM).
What to Bring
To file at the Probate Court you need: the original will (or proof there isn't one), a certified death certificate, contact information for all heirs and beneficiaries, and a summary of what the estate owns and owes.
Court Resources
Additional resources, forms, and fee schedules are available on the Probate Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Probate Court in Cobb County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($202). Once the court issues letters, the personal representative can act.
At minimum: petition for probate, application for letters testamentary or of administration, notice to heirs, and an oath for the personal representative. Cobb County uses the standard Georgia probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Georgia permits self-representation, but formal probate procedures make it impractical for most families. The Probate Court staff can accept filings but cannot give legal advice. Check the Georgia self-filing assessment before deciding.
Cobb County typically requires in-person or mail filing for probate petitions. Check the court's website for the latest procedures — some counties have added e-filing for specific document types.
Assets stay locked, creditors can still pursue them, and beneficiaries cannot sell real property or close accounts. After a few years, interested parties can petition to open probate themselves. Waiting rarely helps. Families who set up a revocable living trust ahead of time bypass this problem entirely.
Probate Court
Cobb County
32 Waddell Street
Marietta, GA 30090
Phone:
770-528-1900Fax:
770-528-1996
Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (License Division closes 4:30 PM)
Paper Filing Available
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
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