Estate Planning & Probate in Washington County, Rhode Island
Most Washington County estate questions come down to one fork: avoid probate before a death, or work through it after one. This page points you to the right path—planning ahead, or settling an estate at the Town of South Kingstown Probate Court.
The Probate Process in Washington County
Probate is the court-supervised process of settling someone's estate after they die — validating the will, paying debts and taxes, and transferring what's left to the heirs. In Washington County, probate runs through the Town of South Kingstown Probate Court at 180 High Street, Wakefield.
Full Washington Countyprobate guide: cost, how to file & attorneys →Probate Court Record
Town of South Kingstown Probate Court
Washington County
Address
Hours
Recording Deeds & Property Documents
Recording Office Record
Town Clerk
Washington County · Town Clerk · Emily Houle
Address
Phone
Fax
Hours
E-recording
$84 for the first page plus $1 for each additional page.
Full recording details →Verified September 8, 2026 · Source
Local Procedures at the Town of South Kingstown Probate Court
The Town of South Kingstown Probate Court schedules probate hearings 3rd Thursday at 9:30 AM.
Petitions without advertising requirements or on waiver must be submitted by noon on the Friday before the court session. Petitions requiring advertising have earlier submission deadlines to allow time for publication. Advertising deadlines are approximately 4 weeks before the court session (e.g., June 18 deadline for the July 16, 2026 session). Contact the court for the specific advertising deadline for each session.
Rhode Island Estate Planning Articles
Articles about estate planning, probate, and trusts relevant to families in Washington County.
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