Probate Benchmarks:

Wisconsin Statutes require all estates to be settled as soon as reasonably possible and without unnecessary delay. The Wisconsin Chief Judges have set twelve (12) months as the benchmark for disposing of probate estates, and the Registers in Probate for the Third Judicial District have also adopted this benchmark. All estates filed in Washington County must be closed within twelve (12) months of the date the initial documents are filed.

Scheduling and Appearances for a Formal Probate:

• Formal probate matters are heard from 8:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m., on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month.
• Hearings must be scheduled and documents must be filed in the Probate Office by noon on the Thursday before the hearing. Failure to submit appropriate documents will cause the matter to be removed from the calendar.
• If a specific date/time is required or a lengthy matter needs to be scheduled, please inform the Probate personnel when calling.
• Matters on publication should be set for 8:30 a.m.

Scheduling an Informal Probate:

• Individuals who are not represented by an attorney may call the Probate Office to make an appointment with the Register in Probate. All documents must be completed and ready to file, along with the original Will, if any.
• Attorneys may submit all documents by mail, including the fee for certified copies and a self-addressed stamped return envelope. If an attorney wishes to meet with the Register, please call for an appointment.

To File a Claim Against and Estate:

• To file a claim against an estate that is being probated, please complete Standard State Form, Claim Against Estate (PR-1819). Please have your signature notarized. File the completed form with the Register in Probate along with a statutory $3.00 filing fee.