How Do I File Probate in Virginia Beach City, 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 Virginia Beach City 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.
Filings here are routed through Probate/Wills, Civil Division, Criminal Division, and Land Records. 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 Circuit Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Virginia Beach City Self-Filing Assessment.
Virginia Beach City 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
Civil appeal trial dates set by the Clerk's Office. Cases arranged via docket call or outside agreement.
Self-addressed stamped envelope required for document return by mail.
Document Requirements
One complimentary certified copy of final divorce decree provided to complainant or counsel.
Other Requirements
Commissioners in Chancery handle certain matters. Divorce and civil case procedure manuals available online.
In-Person Filing
The Circuit Court is located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Building 10, 3rd Floor, Virginia Beach, VA 23456. Phone: 757/385-4181. Hours: 8:30AM - 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 Virginia Beach City, 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. Virginia Beach City 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 Virginia Beach City 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
Virginia Beach City
2425 Nimmo Parkway, Building 10, 3rd Floor
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Phone:
757/385-4181Email:
TSinnen@vacourts.govHours:
8:30AM - 4:00PM
Paper Filing Available
E-Filing Optional
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
Is this your situation?
Get a complete guide for your specific circumstances.
Named as Executor
Being named executor means navigating probate, managing assets, and distributing the estate. What's expected, what you can charge, and how to start.
Learn more
Death of a Parent
Losing a parent is overwhelming. What needs to happen next — settling the estate, navigating probate, and the steps to move forward.
Learn more