The Probate Court is a court of record having exclusive original jurisdiction over all matters related to decedents’ estates, trusts, guardianships of adult incapacitated persons, conservatorships of minors and adult incapacitated persons, involuntary commitment of persons suffering from mental illness, intellectual disability, chemical dependence, and tuberculosis, and issuance of marriage licenses. The Court also has jurisdiction over the approval of certain wrongful death settlements.

Court activities/functions related to the above jurisdictional areas include appointment of personal representatives, trustees, conservators and guardians, hearings and trials in formal proceedings, processing and admitting to probate/record wills and other probate instruments, pleadings, motions, marriage licenses and applications therefor, and other official documents, and maintenance of public records regarding the same.

In discharging the duties and functions of the Court, the Probate Judge and Court staff strive always to render courteous and effective public service, in a professional manner befitting a judicial agency, and sensitive to the human equation with respect to those individuals having business with the Court. Court services are rendered fairly, impartially and equitably without regard to race, creed, color, or gender.

Beaufort County Probate Court seeks to perform its missions in a manner that does honor and justice to the citizens of Beaufort County and its leaders, as well as to our state and federal court system and provides meaningful service to the public. Its credo is professional public service with civility, in a user friendly mode. Meetings and all related court business are by appointment only.