Chittenden County, Vermont

Probate in Chittenden County, Vermont

Chittenden County probate filings are heard at the Burlington courthouse under Vermont law (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 14 (Decedents' Estates and Fiduciary Relations)). The process below applies statewide; specific court fees and forms are available from the Chittenden County Clerk.

Chittenden County probate at a glance

County seat
Burlington
Court
Superior Court – Probate Division
Population (est.)
168,323
Typical timeline
30–52 weeks
Filing fee
$50–$200
Small-estate threshold
$45,000
Statute
Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 14 (Decedents' Estates and Fiduciary Relations)

For exact fees + forms, check the Chittenden County Clerk’s office or the state source: www.vermontjudiciary.org.

Vermont probate, step by step

  1. 1File petition to open estate with the Probate Division
  2. 2Court appoints fiduciary and issues letters
  3. 3Publish notice to creditors; four-month claim period runs
  4. 4File inventory and pay debts, Vermont estate tax, and allowances
  5. 5File final accounting and decree of distribution

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