Probate Court

Judge Ariana F. Ceneviva
142 East Main St., Meriden, CT 06450
203-630-4150

The Meriden office of the Connecticut State Probate Court system is located at Meriden City Hall.  Connecticut is divided into 54 probate districts, each of which is presided over by a Judge of Probate who is elected to office for a four-year term.  The Probate Court has jurisdiction over a variety of matters, including:

  • Probating wills and the administration of estates.
  • Overseeing testamentary and living trusts.
  • Determining title to real and personal property.
  • Construing the meaning of wills and trusts.
  • Appointing guardians for persons with intellectual disabilities.
  • Appointing conservators of the person and estate for incapable individuals.
  • Committing individuals suffering from psychiatric disabilities or drug and alcohol addiction to an appropriate facility.
  • Removing guardianship rights of parents and appointing temporary custodians and guardians for minor children.
  • Terminating the parental rights of parents who cannot fulfill their parental responsibilities.
  • Granting adoptions.
  • Granting name changes.
  • Approving the issuance of marriage licenses to persons between the age of 16 and 18 years old.
  • Quarantine and isolation orders for public health emergencies.
  • Tuberculosis treatment orders.
  • Removal of life support and other end-of-life decisions.

Sometimes the issues presented to the Probate Courts are complex and difficult. Therefore, it is important that you seek competent professional advice so that your legal rights are fully protected.  The probate judge and staff will be happy to answer your procedural questions, but they are not allowed to give you specific legal advice.

A list of Frequently Asked Questions and other information about the Probate Court can be found on the Connecticut Probate Courts website: http://www.ctprobate.gov/Pages/Welcome.aspx



Some of the information provided in the Probate Court section of the City of Meriden website is taken from the Probate Court Administrators brochure , a copy of which can be obtained through the Probate Court located in City Hall.  © 1997, Probate Court Administrator Rev. 7/97