Shelby County Probate Court Records are official documents that show how estates, wills, guardianships, and trusts are handled in Shelby County, Tennessee. These records include filed wills, court orders, estate inventories, appointment letters, and case dockets. Anyone can request access to these public records for legal, genealogical, or personal reasons. The Probate Court ensures all filings are stored safely and made available under Tennessee law. Whether you need a certified copy, want to view historical files, or search online, this page explains every way to get the records you need quickly and correctly.
How to Get Shelby County Probate Court Records
There are three main ways to get Shelby County Probate Court Records: by phone, email, or in person. You can call the Probate Office at (901) 222-3750 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Staff will help with questions and guide your request. For written requests, email the protected address listed on the official website. Include your full name, contact details, case number if known, and the type of record needed. Faxed requests go to 901-222-3751 and must have a signed affidavit proving your legal right to the records. In-person visits happen at 140 Adams Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104, where Clerk Bill Morrison and his team assist walk-ins during business hours.
Online Access Through RCAS
The Remote Case Access System (RCAS) lets you search and download Shelby County Probate Court Records anytime. This secure portal works 24 hours a day, except during monthly maintenance on the first Tuesday from 2 a.m. to 4 a.m. To use RCAS, create a free account with a personal ID and password. Then enter a docket number or party name to find cases. You can view docket entries, download PDFs of wills or court orders, and print fee summaries. Each login is logged for security. Technical support is available at (901) 222-3752 if you have trouble. RCAS is the fastest way to get recent filings without visiting the courthouse.
Fees and Certified Copies
Certified copies of Shelby County Probate Court Records cost $10 per page. This fee applies whether you order by email, fax, or in person. Payment methods include cash, check, or money order made payable to the Shelby County Probate Court. For mailed requests, include payment with your form. Electronic PDFs sent via secure download are usually free for basic viewing, but certification adds the per-page charge. Fee waivers are not standard, so always confirm costs before submitting. A printable summary of fees and services appears after each RCAS search session.
Public Viewing Room and Historical Files
The public viewing room on the second floor of the courthouse is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Researchers can access historic Shelby County Probate Court Records dating back to 1905. Staff members help locate older files stored in the climate-controlled archive. Bring a photo ID for verification. The room has computers linked to the electronic docket system, microfilm readers, and reference materials. No appointment is needed, but large research projects may benefit from calling ahead. This space supports genealogists, historians, and attorneys needing deep record reviews.
Language Support and Help Line
A dedicated help line operates from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays at (901) 222-3750. Spanish-speaking staff are available upon request to assist with Shelby County Probate Court Records inquiries. The line handles questions about filing procedures, record availability, fees, and technical issues with online systems. Callers receive step-by-step guidance tailored to their needs. This service ensures non-English speakers and busy individuals get timely help without visiting in person.
Processing Times and Delivery
Requests for Shelby County Probate Court Records submitted before noon are typically processed the same business day. Electronic PDFs are delivered via secure download link within 24 hours. Mailed or faxed requests take longer due to manual handling. Certified copies may require an extra day for sealing and signing. Rush services are not offered, so plan ahead for deadlines. The court does not send records by regular mail unless requested; most users prefer digital delivery for speed and safety.
Legal Authority and Record Keeping
Under Tennessee Title 66, the Probate Judge serves as the official records custodian for Shelby County. Original paper filings are kept in a climate-controlled archive to prevent damage. Digital copies are indexed in the county’s electronic docket system for fast retrieval. The Clerk’s office, led by Bill Morrison, manages daily operations, fee collection, and public access. All records follow state retention schedules, ensuring long-term preservation. This dual system protects both physical and digital assets while meeting legal standards.
Required Documents for Requests
To request Shelby County Probate Court Records, you must prove your identity and legal interest. Submit a clear copy of a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID. If the record involves a divorce, include a certified copy of the final decree. For third-party requests, attach a signed and notarized affidavit stating your relationship to the case. These steps prevent unauthorized access and protect privacy. Incomplete packages are returned without processing.
Search Tips for Faster Results
Start your search with a docket number if you have one—this is the quickest path to Shelby County Probate Court Records. If not, use the party’s full legal name, date of birth, or approximate filing year in the RCAS “Case Information” field. Avoid nicknames or partial names to reduce false matches. The system returns a list of relevant cases with status, judge, and filing date. Click any result to view documents. For help, call (901) 222-3753 or check the RCAS help guide online.
Common Uses for Probate Records
People request Shelby County Probate Court Records for many reasons. Lawyers use them to verify estate distributions or challenge wills. Genealogists trace family history through old wills and inventories. Heirs confirm inheritance rights or locate missing assets. Researchers study local legal trends. Insurance companies validate claims. Regardless of purpose, all users must follow the same access rules. The court does not offer legal advice but provides factual records upon proper request.
Difference Between TN and AL Shelby County Records
Note: Shelby County, Tennessee, and Shelby County, Alabama, are separate jurisdictions with different systems. This page covers only Tennessee records. Alabama’s probate court is in Columbiana, with its own website, fees, and procedures. Always confirm the state before submitting a request. Confusing the two delays processing and may result in denied access. The Tennessee office cannot assist with Alabama filings.
Contact Information and Hours
Main Office: 140 Adams Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104 Phone: (901) 222-3750 Email: Use the protected address on the official site Fax: 901-222-3751 Business Hours: 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Mon–Fri Help Line: 7 a.m.–6 p.m., Mon–Fri (Spanish available) Public Viewing Room: 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Mon–Fri RCAS Support: (901) 222-3752 Clerk: Bill Morrison
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about Shelby County Probate Court Records. Below are clear answers based on current policies and procedures. These responses reflect real user needs and official guidelines. If your question isn’t here, call the help line for personalized assistance.
Can I get probate records without a case number?
Yes, you can search for Shelby County Probate Court Records without a case number. Use the RCAS portal and enter the full legal name of a party involved, their date of birth, or the approximate year the case was filed. The system will show matching cases with docket numbers. Once you find the right one, you can view or download documents. If you’re unsure of the spelling or details, try common variations. Staff at the public viewing room can also help locate files using alternate identifiers. Always bring ID when visiting in person.
Are probate records public in Tennessee?
Yes, Shelby County Probate Court Records are public under Tennessee law. Anyone can request copies of wills, estate filings, guardianship papers, and court orders. However, you must prove your identity and, in some cases, show legal interest—like being an heir or attorney. The court protects sensitive personal data but does not restrict access based on purpose. Certified copies carry an official seal for legal use. Uncertified digital views are free through RCAS. Privacy laws prevent disclosure of sealed or juvenile records, but standard probate matters are open.
How long does it take to receive requested records?
Most requests for Shelby County Probate Court Records are processed the same day if submitted before noon. Electronic PDFs arrive via secure download within 24 hours. Faxed or mailed requests take longer due to manual review and shipping. Certified copies may need an extra day for official signing. Rush options aren’t available, so plan ahead for court deadlines or legal filings. During holidays or high-volume periods, delays can occur. Call the help line to check status if you haven’t received your records after two business days.
Can I access probate records from home?
Yes, you can access Shelby County Probate Court Records from home using the Remote Case Access System (RCAS). This free online portal works 24/7, except during monthly maintenance. Create an account, log in, and search by name or docket number. View docket entries, download PDFs, and print summaries. You’ll need internet access and a valid email. For certified copies, you must request them separately by email or fax with proper ID. RCAS is ideal for quick checks, while official documents require formal submission.
What if I need records older than 100 years?
Shelby County keeps historic probate records dating back to 1905. These are stored in a climate-controlled archive and available in the public viewing room. Staff will retrieve files for researchers, genealogists, or historians. No special permission is needed, but bring photo ID. Some very old documents may only be on microfilm. The viewing room has readers and staff assistance. Digital scans aren’t available for all early records, so in-person visits are best for deep research. Call ahead if you need large batches or fragile materials handled carefully.
Do I need a lawyer to request probate records?
No, you do not need a lawyer to request Shelby County Probate Court Records. Anyone can submit a request by email, fax, phone, or in person. However, if you’re not directly involved in the case, you may need to provide a notarized affidavit explaining your legal interest. Lawyers often request records for clients, but individuals can do it themselves. The court provides forms and guidance. Avoid third-party sites that charge extra fees—go directly to the official office or RCAS for accurate, low-cost access.
Are there fees for viewing records online?
Viewing Shelby County Probate Court Records online through RCAS is free. You can search, read docket entries, and download uncertified PDFs at no cost. Fees only apply when you request certified copies, which cost $10 per page. These must be ordered separately with payment. The system shows a fee summary before you proceed. No hidden charges exist for basic access. This policy ensures transparency and fairness for all users, whether researching family history or preparing legal documents.