Shelby County, Tennessee

Probate in Shelby County, Tennessee

Shelby County probate filings are heard at the Memphis courthouse under Tennessee law (Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 30-1-101 et seq.; § 30-4-101 (small estates)). The process below applies statewide; specific court fees and forms are available from the Shelby County Clerk.

Shelby County probate at a glance

County seat
Memphis
Court
Chancery Court (most counties) or Probate Court (e.g. Davidson, Shelby)
Population (est.)
926,553
Typical timeline
26–52 weeks
Filing fee
$100–$400
Small-estate threshold
$50,000
Statute
Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 30-1-101 et seq.; § 30-4-101 (small estates)

For exact fees + forms, check the Shelby County Clerk’s office or the state source: www.tncourts.gov.

Tennessee probate, step by step

  1. 1File petition for letters in Chancery or Probate Court
  2. 2Court appoints personal representative and issues letters
  3. 3Publish notice to creditors; four-month claim period runs
  4. 4File inventory and pay debts, Tennessee taxes, and allowances
  5. 5File final accounting and order of distribution

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Other Tennessee counties

This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county. Consult a licensed Tennessee probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.