St. Louis County, Missouri
Probate in St. Louis County, Missouri
St. Louis County probate filings are heard at the Clayton courthouse under Missouri law (Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 472-475 (Missouri Probate Code)). The process below applies statewide; specific court fees and forms are available from the St. Louis County Clerk.
St. Louis County probate at a glance
- County seat
- Clayton
- Court
- Circuit Court (Probate Division)
- Population (est.)
- 1,004,125
- Typical timeline
- 26–52 weeks
- Filing fee
- $55–$300
- Small-estate threshold
- $40,000
- Statute
- Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 472-475 (Missouri Probate Code)
For exact fees + forms, check the St. Louis County Clerk’s office or the state source: www.courts.mo.gov.
Missouri probate, step by step
- 1File application for letters or small-estate affidavit with Probate Division
- 2Court issues letters and admits will to probate
- 3Publish notice to creditors; six-month claim period runs
- 4File inventory and pay debts, taxes, and statutory allowances
- 5File final settlement and order of distribution
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Other Missouri counties
This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county. Consult a licensed Missouri probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.