How Do I File Probate in Wilson 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 Wilson 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. The court sits in the 15th Judicial District.
Filings here are routed through the Probate Court. Confirm with the office which intake handles the petition type you're filing.
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.
The Clerk & Master publishes probate forms online. Clerks are not permitted to provide legal advice, including form selection or case procedure.
Get the Wilson County probate forms →For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Wilson County Self-Filing Assessment.
Wilson 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
Wilson County has separate Probate Court created by private act
The Wilson County Probate Court was created by private act. The Clerk and Master has been appointed Special Master and may perform many functions formerly reserved to the County Judge, subject to review by the Probate Judge. Probate cases are heard by the Judge of General Sessions Court - Division III.
Source: Wilson County Private Act
Other Requirements
Separate contact numbers for Chancery and Probate matters
Contact Chancery Court at 615-444-2835 for equity matters. Contact Probate Court at 615-466-5311 for estate administration, small estates, inventories, and executor/administrator appointments.
Source: Wilson County Clerk and Master
In-Person Filing
The Chancery Court is located at 134 South College Street, Room 200, Lebanon, TN 37087. Phone: (615) 444-2835. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
What to Bring
To file at the Chancery 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 Chancery Court website.
Court information verified June 2, 2026 · Source
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Chancery Court in Wilson 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. Wilson 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 Wilson 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
Wilson County
134 South College Street, Room 200
Lebanon, TN 37087
Phone:
(615) 444-2835Fax:
(615) 703-9769
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.
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