Probate courts deal with which matters?

• A. Wills, estates, marriage licenses, appointment of guardians, and involuntary hospitalizations; may also issue warrants
• B. Traffic violations
• C. Felony trials
• D. Federal cases

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that probate courts handle non-criminal matters tied to a person’s status and property, especially after death or in situations where someone’s affairs must be managed for them. They deal with wills and the administration of estates, ensuring assets are distributed and debts are settled. They handle guardianships and conservatorships to protect people who can’t take care of themselves or their finances. They also manage civil status matters like issuing marriage licenses. In many jurisdictions, they handle petitions related to involuntary hospitalization when someone may need mental health treatment, all within the probate court system. They may also issue warrants related to orders in these proceedings as part of enforcing those actions.

Traffic violations are typically handled by traffic or criminal courts, not probate courts. Felony trials occur in criminal courts, not probate courts. Federal cases go to federal courts, not state probate courts. So the probate court scope described here is the one that matches the duties listed.