How Do I File Probate in Warren 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 Warren 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 if you're comfortable with online systems.
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 Warren County Self-Filing Assessment.
In-Person Filing
The District Court is located at 1001 Center St., Suite 102, Bowling Green, KY 42101. Phone: 270-746-7400. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Probate matters are overseen by District Court Judge, 8th Judicial District, Division 1 Hon. Kimberly Geoghegan.
What to Bring
Bring the original will, a certified death certificate, and a list of heirs and beneficiaries to the District Court. You'll also need to provide an overview of the estate's assets and any known debts.
Court Resources
For procedural questions about your filing, you can contact Circuit Court Clerk Brandi Duvall. The clerk's office handles filing questions but cannot provide legal advice.
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 Warren County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($150). 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. Warren 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 Warren 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
Warren County
1001 Center St., Suite 102
Bowling Green, KY 42101
Phone:
270-746-7400Fax:
270-746-7501
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.
Is this your situation?
Get a complete guide for your specific circumstances.
Named as Executor
Being named executor means navigating probate, managing assets, and distributing the estate. What's expected, what you can charge, and how to start.
Learn more
Death of a Parent
Losing a parent is overwhelming. What needs to happen next — settling the estate, navigating probate, and the steps to move forward.
Learn more