Georgia Probate Courts exercise exclusive, original jurisdiction in the probate of wills, administration of estates, appointment of guardians (minor and adult) and involuntary hospitalization of incapacitated adults and other individuals.
All Probate Court judges administer oaths of office, issue marriage and firearms licenses; some process United States Passports applications. They may hold habeas corpus hearings or preside over criminal preliminary hearings. Unless a jury trial is requested, probate court judges may also hear certain misdemeanors, traffic cases and violations of state game and fish laws in counties where there is no state court. When authorized by local statute, probate judges serve as election supervisors and make appointments to certain local public offices.
If you have a physical or mental impairment and believe you may need an accommodation to fully and equally participate in a particular court proceeding or activity, you may request a reasonable accommodation. To request a reasonable accommodation, complete the Request for Reasonable Accommodation Form and return to the ADA Coordinator for the Court in which you are scheduled to appear.
