How Do I File Probate in Washoe County, Nevada?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Second Judicial District Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
Probate documents in Washoe County can be filed in person at the Second Judicial 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 Second Judicial District Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Washoe County Self-Filing Assessment.
Washoe 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
E-filing mandatory via eFlex system
Account approval takes up to 3 business days. Credit card payments incur 3% fee.
Local probate rules under WDCR Rule 57 (Rules 57.1-57.8)
Forms from other jurisdictions must be edited to comply with local rules
Case may be rejected if forms do not comply with WDCR requirements.
Will lodging required within 30 days of death
Filing fee: $18.
Document Requirements
No court-provided forms for Set Aside, Summary, or General Administration
Complex cases may require professional help from an attorney.
Service Requirements
Creditor notice publication required 3 times
At least 10 days between first and last publication. 90-day (general) or 60-day (summary) claim period.
In-Person Filing
The Second Judicial District Court is located at 75 Court Street, Room 125, Reno, NV 89501. Phone: 775-328-3100. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
Probate matters are overseen by District Court Judge, Department 15 Hon. David Hardy.
What to Bring
Filing probate at the Second Judicial District Court requires the original will (if one exists), a certified death certificate, and information about heirs and beneficiaries. The court also requires details about estate assets and known debts.
Court Resources
Additional resources, forms, and fee schedules are available on the Second Judicial District Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Second Judicial District Court in Washoe County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee (about $522.5). 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. Washoe County uses the standard Nevada probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Nevada allows informal (unsupervised) probate, which many families handle themselves for simple estates. The Second Judicial District Court in Washoe County does not require attorney representation. Use the Nevada self-filing assessment to see if your estate qualifies.
Yes. The Second Judicial District Court in Washoe 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.
Second Judicial District Court
Washoe County
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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