How Do I File Probate in Montgomery 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 Montgomery 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 21st Judicial Circuit.
Filings here are routed through the Clerk (alt). 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 Montgomery County Self-Filing Assessment.
Montgomery 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
Circuit motions due one week before motion day; replies due within 20 days
Circuit court motions require filing one week before motion day with service on defendant and judge. Motion replies required within 20 days. Montgomery County operates an ELP program governed by local rules CR 88, 89 & 90. Standard visitation schedules available upon request.
SourceIn-Person Filing
The District Court is located at One Court St., Mt. Sterling, KY 40353. Phone: 859-498-5966. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Probate hearings are typically scheduled District Civil/Traffic/Arraignments: Monday & Thursday at 9:00 AM. Juvenile: Wednesday at 9:00 AM. Domestic Violence: Monday at 1:30 PM. Small Claims: 1st Friday at 9:00 AM. Probate petitions: Wednesday & Thursday at 8:30 AM..
Before You Go
Accepted payment
Cash, Check, Money order, Credit card, Debit card. Pay online via ePay. Checks held 10 days to clear. Credit/debit cards incur a fee.
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.
Court information verified June 2, 2026 · Source
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the District Court in Montgomery County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($172). 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. Montgomery 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 Montgomery 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
Montgomery County
One Court St.
Mt. Sterling, KY 40353
Phone:
859-498-5966Fax:
859-498-9341
Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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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