How Do I File Probate in Washington County, Maine?
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 Washington County are filed at the Probate Court. File in person during business hours or by mail.
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 Washington County Self-Filing Assessment.
In-Person Filing
The Probate Court is located at 85 Court Street, Machias, ME 04654. Phone: 207-255-6591. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Probate hearings are typically scheduled Two Tuesdays per month (and as needed).
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 Washington County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee (about $625). 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. Washington County uses the standard Maine probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Maine allows informal (unsupervised) probate, which many families handle themselves for simple estates. The Probate Court in Washington County does not require attorney representation. Use the Maine self-filing assessment to see if your estate qualifies.
Washington 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
Washington County
85 Court Street
Machias, ME 04654
Phone:
207-255-6591Fax:
207-255-3999
Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Paper Filing Available
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
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