1. Determine the Surrogate's Court:
- Wills are filed in the Surrogate's Court of the county where the person who made the will (the testator) lived at the time of their death.
2. Visit the Surrogate's Court:
- Go to the Surrogate's Court in the appropriate county. You can find the addresses and contact information for these courts online or by calling the county clerk's office.
3. Request a Copy of the Will:
- Once at the Surrogate's Court, ask for a copy of the will you are interested in. You may need to provide the testator's full name, date of death, and any other relevant information they request.
4. Provide the Required Information:
- You may be asked to provide proof of your identity and your relationship to the testator. This could include a driver's license, birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other documents.
5. Pay Any Fees:
- There may be a fee associated with obtaining a copy of the will. The fee varies by county, so consult with the Surrogate's Court for information on any applicable fees.
6. Review the Will:
- You will be given a copy of the will once any fees are paid. Take the time to carefully read and understand the contents of the document.
It's essential to follow the specific procedures and requirements set by the Surrogate's Court in the county you're dealing with, as processes may vary between counties. If you encounter any difficulties or have specific questions regarding accessing wills, do not hesitate to contact the Surrogate's Court directly.
