How Do I File Probate in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Circuit Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
Probate documents in Chesterfield County can be filed in person at the Circuit Court, by mail, or electronically. Most families handling probate themselves prefer paper filing, though e-filing is available.
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 Circuit Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Chesterfield County Self-Filing Assessment.
Chesterfield 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
Pre-setting of all cases is strongly encouraged.
In-Person Filing
The Circuit Court is located at 9500 Courthouse Road, 2nd Floor, Chesterfield, VA 23832. Phone: 804/748-1241. Hours: 8:00AM - 4:00PM.
What to Bring
To file at the Circuit 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 Circuit Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Circuit Court in Chesterfield County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee (about $30). 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. Chesterfield County uses the standard Virginia probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Virginia permits self-representation, but formal probate procedures make it impractical for most families. The Circuit Court staff can accept filings but cannot give legal advice. Check the Virginia self-filing assessment before deciding.
Yes. The Circuit Court in Chesterfield 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.
Circuit Court
Chesterfield County
9500 Courthouse Road, 2nd Floor
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Phone:
804/748-1241Fax:
804/796-5625
Hours:
8:00AM - 4:00PM
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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