Probate Court

 State of Connecticut  

Court of Probate                                                  

District of Thomaston 

Honorable Joseph J. Fairchild

Judge of Probate

Tanya M. Matulis

Clerk

158 Main Street                                                                                                                              

Thomaston, CT  06787

Telephone (860) 283-4874

Court Hours:  Monday through Friday   9:00 am to 1:00 pm     

Connecticut is divided into 117 probate districts, each of which  is presided

over by a probate judge who is elected to office for a four-year term.

 Probate Courts have jurisdiction over many matters:

1)  probating wills and the administration of estates;

2)  overseeing testamentary and living trusts;

3)  determining title to real and personal property;

4)  construing the meaning of wills and trusts;

5)  appointing guardians for the mentally retarded;

6)  appointing conservators of the person and the estate of

      incapable individuals;                                                     

7)  committing those suffering from mental illness, alcohollism, or

     drug addiction to an appropriate facility;

8)  removing unfit parents as guardians of their children;

9)  terminating the parental rights of parents who fulfill thier parental

     responsibilities;

10) granting adoptions;

11) granting name changes;

12) other matters.

Probate Court Forms:   http://www.jud2.ct.gov/webforms/default.htm#PROBATE

Probate Court FAQ’s:   http://www.jud.ct.gov/probate/faq.html

Probate Forms List:      http://www.jud.ct.gov/probate/faq3.html

Sometimes the issues presented to the Probate Courts are complex and difficult. Therefore, it is important that you seek competent professional advice, so that your legal rights are fully protected. This web page is not a substitute for such assistance; it has been designed to give you an overview of Connecticut Probate Courts.

 The probate judge and staff will be happy to answer your procedural questions, but they are not allowed to give you specific legal advice.

 * Information about obtaining a passport can be found at the U.S. Department Of State's website.

* If you are a grandparent or relative caregiver for a child who is 18 years of age or younger, or you are the caregiver of an older adult family member (age 60 years or older), you may be eligible to apply for respite care and supplemental services from the National Family Caregiver Support Program.