Surrogate’s Court – Albany, NY

Albany County Surrogate’s Court

Probate, Estates, and Adoptions

The Albany County Surrogate’s Court is a dedicated court within the New York State Unified Court System that handles all matters relating to the affairs of decedents. Presided over by the Surrogate Judge, this court has jurisdiction over the probate of wills, the administration of estates for those who die without a will (intestate), and trust proceedings. Additionally, the Surrogate’s Court oversees guardianships for infants and individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as all private and agency adoptions within the county.

• Important Entrance Information: While the official mailing address is 16 Eagle Street, the only public entrance to the Albany County Courthouse is located on the opposite side of the building on Lodge Street. Visitors should look for the entrance directly across from the Albany County Judicial Center.
• Estate Proceedings: The court processes petitions for letters testamentary and letters of administration, ensuring that estate assets are distributed according to law and the decedent’s wishes.
• Adoptions and Guardianship: The court handles sensitive family matters including the finalization of adoptions and the appointment of guardians for minors and incapacitated adults (Article 17-A).
• Records and Genealogy: The court maintains historical estate records, which are available for public search. Many recent filings are also accessible through the WebSurrogate online system.

Court Operations

The court operates Monday through Friday. Filings can be submitted in person or electronically via the NYSCEF system (mandatory for most estate proceedings). The court provides resources for pro se litigants (those representing themselves), including small estate affidavits for assets under a certain threshold. Visitors must pass through security screening, including metal detectors, upon entering the Lodge Street facility.