Find Ann Arbor Probate Records
Ann Arbor probate court records are housed at the Washtenaw County Probate Court, right in downtown Ann Arbor on Huron Street. The court handles estates, guardianships, conservatorships, and related matters for all of Washtenaw County. Since Ann Arbor is the county seat, the courthouse is conveniently located for city residents. Washtenaw County also offers an online case search that covers probate filings. Some records are restricted from public view, including mental health and juvenile cases. This page walks through how to search, request, and access Ann Arbor probate court records.
Ann Arbor Quick Facts
Washtenaw County Probate Court in Ann Arbor
The Washtenaw County Probate Court is at 101 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor, MI 48107. The phone number is (734) 222-3072. This court has exclusive jurisdiction over all Ann Arbor probate court records, as set out in MCL 700.1302. It hears cases involving estates of deceased persons, trusts, guardianships for both minors and adults, conservatorships, and mental health matters. The courthouse sits in the heart of Ann Arbor, within walking distance of the University of Michigan campus.
Washtenaw County is home to a large and educated population. The court sees a steady flow of filings, from routine estate administrations to complex trust disputes. Staff members can answer questions about case status and help you find the right forms.
The City of Ann Arbor website offers local government information and public service resources.
Ann Arbor residents can use city resources to connect with county services including the probate court.
Searching Ann Arbor Probate Court Records Online
Washtenaw County provides an online case search portal where you can look up Ann Arbor probate court records. Enter a party name or case number to find filings. The system shows case type, dates, and basic details. It covers both probate and circuit court cases. This is the best starting point for any online search.
The statewide MiCOURT portal also includes some Washtenaw County cases. However, the county's own search tool tends to be more complete for local probate records.
Not everything is online. Mental health proceedings, juvenile cases, and adoption records are restricted under Michigan law. You will not find those in any public search tool. If you need access to a restricted record, contact the court to ask about the petition process.
The Washtenaw County Probate Court page has contact details and filing information for Ann Arbor probate court records.
Visit the court page for office hours, phone numbers, and form downloads.
Ann Arbor Estate Filing Procedures
Estate filings in Ann Arbor follow the Estates and Protected Individuals Code, MCL 700.1101. When a Washtenaw County resident dies, the personal representative files a petition and the will, if one exists, with the probate court. Informal probate is the simpler path. It costs about $150 to $190 and works when the will is clear and no one objects. Formal probate, which involves more court oversight, costs $170 to $210 or higher.
Estates under $15,000 in value, minus funeral costs, can avoid probate entirely. MCL 700.3982 allows heirs to use an affidavit to claim assets. The court clerk can walk you through this process and give you the form.
All filings in Ann Arbor require SCAO-approved forms under MCL 600.855. Get them from the SCAO forms page or at the courthouse.
The Washtenaw County case search system provides online access to Ann Arbor probate court records and case details.
Search by name or case number to view filings and hearing dates for Washtenaw County probate cases.
Ann Arbor Legal and Research Resources
Ann Arbor has strong resources for anyone dealing with probate matters. The University of Michigan Law Library offers public access to legal reference materials. It can be a good place to look up statutes, case law, and procedural guides. The Bentley Historical Library on campus holds historical records and manuscripts that may help with genealogy-related probate research.
The State Bar of Michigan runs a lawyer referral service. It can connect you with a probate attorney in the Ann Arbor area. For people handling probate without a lawyer, Michigan Legal Help has free guides and form instructions.
Inventory fees for estates in Washtenaw County follow MCL 600.871. The fee depends on the estate's total value and is paid on a sliding scale.
Note: The 15th District Court at 301 E. Huron in Ann Arbor handles civil and traffic matters but not probate cases.
Ann Arbor County Court Link
All Ann Arbor probate court records are filed through Washtenaw County. Visit the county page for full courthouse and filing details.
Nearby Cities
Probate court record pages for cities near Ann Arbor: