Estate Planning & Probate in Essex County, Vermont

Essex County estate questions split two ways—planning so your family skips probate, or settling an estate that is already in it. This page points you to the right path—planning ahead, or settling an estate at the Superior Court - Probate Division.

The Probate Process in Essex 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 Essex County, probate runs through the Superior Court - Probate Division at 75 Courthouse Drive, Guildhall.

Full Essex Countyprobate guide: cost, how to file & attorneys →

Probate Court Record

Superior Court - Probate Division

Essex County

Address

75 Courthouse DriveGuildhall, VT 05905

Hours

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Paper filing availableE-filing required for attorneysSelf-filing allowed
How to file probate in Essex County→

Recording Deeds & Property Documents

Recording Office Record

Town Clerk

Essex County · Town Clerk · George Blakeslee

Address

13 Courthouse DriveGuildhall, VT 05905Mailing: P.O. Box 10, Guildhall, VT 05905

Fax

802-676-3518

Hours

Tuesday and Thursday, 8:45 AM - 2:45 PM

E-recording

Not available
Visit recorder website →

$15 for the first page plus $15 for each additional page; transfer tax may need separate review.

Full recording details →

Verified September 9, 2026 · Source

Local Procedures at the Superior Court - Probate Division

The court offers a self-help center. Staff can review paperwork for completeness and explain procedures, though they cannot provide legal advice. Call 802-879-1185 for details.

Within 30 days after appointment as Fiduciary, you must file an Inventory listing all decedent assets. May be extended to 90 days with court approval per Probate Rule 66a. Within 30 days of appointment, must publish Notice to Creditors once in a newspaper circulating in the community where decedent resided.

Vermont Estate Planning Articles

Articles about estate planning, probate, and trusts relevant to families in Essex County.