Van Buren County Probate Court

One main function of probate courts is to administer trusts and estates after someone has died. Estate administration can be done whether a person had a will, or whether they died "intestate" (without a will). Probate courts also allow people to deposit wills for safekeeping.

These courts can also appoint guardians and conservators for incapacitated adults and minors. A guardian can make decisions about a person's health and personal life. A conservator can make decisions about of a person’s property and money.

Probate courts also handle cases under the Mental Health Code. This includes commitment for hospital care of people alleged to have a mental illness, and guardianship proceedings for developmentally disabled people.