What is Probate Court?

Judge Jenifer K. Overmyer, Magistrate K. Brent Copeland and the staff of the Preble County Probate Court are committed to providing a fair and impartial administration of justice, as well as prompt, courteous, respectful and efficient service to the public.

Probate Court Responsibilities

The Probate Court is established in each county of Ohio and has jurisdiction over estates, guardianships, birth records, name changes, adoptions, civil commitments, marriage licenses and other legal matters.

In all, the Ohio Revised Code places over two hundred separate duties upon the Probate Court. In all of its duties, the Preble County Probate Court’s mission is to efficiently and effectively fulfill its obligations and responsibilities as established by Ohio law while maintaining the public confidence. Some of the more common duties of the Court include:

  • Adoptions
  • Appointing and reviewing guardianships/conservatorships of minors and incompetent persons
  • Birth registrations and corrections
  • Marriage licenses
  • Name changes
  • Processing of trusts
  • Resolving issues of contested wills
  • Estates
  • Civil actions
  • Adult protective services
  • Disinterment
  • Supervision of testamentary trusts