What is Probate Court?

In Georgia, the Probate Court has exclusive jurisdiction over the probate of wills, the administration of estates, the appointment of guardians and conservators for incapacitated adults and minor children, and commitments to involuntary evaluation and treatment for people with mental, drug or alcohol issues.

The Probate Court also issues both marriage and firearms licenses and performs a number of administrative duties which have been assigned to the Court over time.

The Cherokee County Probate Court is an "Article 6" court and has expanded jurisdiction.  Under Article 6 of Title 15, Chapter 9, Official Code of Georgia, Probate Judges in counties with populations of 96,000 or greater generally must have qualifications equal to those of a Superior Court Judge, including being a licensed attorney for seven years.  Article 6 Courts have limited concurrent jurisdiction with Superior Courts and may conduct jury trials in some matters.  Appeals in Article 6 Courts are directly to the Court of Appeals or Supreme Court.

Keith Wood has served as Judge of the Probate Court since January 1, 2009.