Rell Signs Probate Reform Bill

HARTFORD (AP) – Gov. M. Jodi Rell says she has signed legislation overhauling Connecticut’s 300-year-old probate court system.

The measure consolidates the current 117 probate court districts to between 44 and 50. It’s part of an effort to cut costs and streamline the deficit-plagued system.

It also sets regular schedules of 40 hours per week in those courts – some of which are open part time now – and requires future probate judges to be attorneys.

Probate courts are best known for settling estates and appointing guardians for children and adults who can’t take care of themselves.