How Do I File Probate in DeKalb County, Tennessee?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Chancery Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
Probate documents in DeKalb County can be filed in person at the Chancery 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 Chancery Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full DeKalb County Self-Filing Assessment.
In-Person Filing
The Chancery Court is located at 1 Public Square, Room 302, Smithville, TN 37166. Phone: 615-597-4360. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
Probate matters are overseen by Clerk and Master Nicole Wright.
What to Bring
Filing probate at the Chancery 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 Chancery Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Chancery Court in DeKalb County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($275). 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. DeKalb County uses the standard Tennessee probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Tennessee permits self-representation, but formal probate procedures make it impractical for most families. The Chancery Court staff can accept filings but cannot give legal advice. Check the Tennessee self-filing assessment before deciding.
Yes. The Chancery Court in DeKalb 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.
Chancery Court
DeKalb County
1 Public Square, Room 302
Smithville, TN 37166
Phone:
615-597-4360Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 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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