probate court

noun

1. a special court with power over administration of estates of deceased persons, the probate of wills, etc.

probate court

1. A court that has jurisdiction over wills, estates, and guardianship of children.

Word History and Origins

Origin of probate court¹

An Americanism dating back to 1720–30

Example Sentences

In states like Oklahoma, Illinois and California, this occurs in probate court, where court-appointed lawyers are not offered.

From ProPublica

Parents and kin are told to go to probate court, transfer custody, or else we’ll take your children.

From ProPublica

Only I tell you fairly,—the first time I get word of anything, I 'll go to the probate court and have you removed!

From Project Gutenberg

He was worth, as the evidence of the Probate Court was to show only too soon, a sum of over £80,000.

From Project Gutenberg

He has filled the offices of county auditor, county commissioner and judge of probate court.

From Project Gutenberg

He was judge of probate court for ten years, and has recently been re-elected to that position.

From Project Gutenberg

He was elected judge of the probate court, in which position he continued until 1881.

From Project Gutenberg