How Do I File Probate in Fayette County, Kentucky?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the District Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
Probate documents in Fayette County can be filed in person at the District Court, by mail, or electronically. Most families handling probate themselves prefer paper filing, though e-filing is available. The court sits in the 22nd Judicial Circuit.
Filings here are routed through Circuit Civil Division (Probate), District Probate Division, District Civil Division, and Small Claims. 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.
E-Filing Also Available
If you prefer, you can file electronically through the state's online system. This is optional for families filing without an attorney.
View E-Filing InformationCan 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 District Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Fayette County Self-Filing Assessment.
In-Person Filing
The District Court is located at 120 N. Limestone, Suite C-103, Lexington, KY 40507. Phone: 859-246-2141. Hours: Civil divisions: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Criminal/Traffic: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (closed Dec. 24 and Dec. 25 only)..
What to Bring
To file at the District 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 District Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the District Court in Fayette County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee (about $161). 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. Fayette County uses the standard Kentucky probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Kentucky permits self-representation, but formal probate procedures make it impractical for most families. The District Court staff can accept filings but cannot give legal advice. Check the Kentucky self-filing assessment before deciding.
Yes. The District Court in Fayette County accepts e-filing through the state portal. In-person filing at the courthouse is still available for those without digital access.
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.
District Court
Fayette County
120 N. Limestone, Suite C-103
Lexington, KY 40507
Phone:
859-246-2141Hours:
Civil divisions: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Criminal/Traffic: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (closed Dec. 24 and Dec. 25 only).
Paper Filing Available
E-Filing Optional
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
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