Probate in West Virginia, handled for you
West Virginia settles estates through the County Commission, which acts as the probate court. West Virginia does not strictly require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested probate. A small-estate affidavit is available for estates under $50,000 (rising to $100,000 effective for deaths on or after July 1, 2026). Kindred handles the administration for one flat fee.
West Virginia lets you handle an uncontested probate without a lawyer. West Virginia does not strictly require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested probate. Kindred handles the administrative work; if anything is contested, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing.
The four things families ask first
Hourly / flat fee
Read moreA typical West Virginia probate runs about 8 to 14 months, driven mainly by the creditor-claim period.
Read more$50,000 (rising to $100,000 effective for deaths on or after July 1, 2026)
Read moreCounty Commission, in the county where the person lived
What it could cost in West Virginia
≈ 45 hours of admin and legal work, all billed at lawyer rates.
Kindred + your attorney
Estimated difference vs. a full-service firm
$5,500
+ about 150 hours of your own time
Full-service estimated at $250–$400/hr for ~45hours; the attorney figure is an illustrative fixed fee. Illustrative only — not a quote or legal advice. Figures vary by estate. We're not a law firm; an independent attorney always handles the legal work.
Frequently asked
Do I need a lawyer for probate in West Virginia?
Not strictly — West Virginia does not require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested probate. Kindred handles the administrative work for a flat fee. If a dispute arises, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing. Kindred is not a law firm.
How much does probate cost in West Virginia?
No statutory percentage fee — attorneys typically bill $200-$350/hour or a flat fee. Filing fees run about $120-$180. Estates under $50,000 (rising to $100,000 effective July 1, 2026) can use a small-estate affidavit. These are illustrative figures.
How long does probate take in West Virginia?
Typically 8 to 14 months. Creditors have 60 days from publication of notice to file claims. An inventory is due within 90 days of qualification.
Last verified July 2026. Figures are illustrative and vary by estate — not a quote or legal advice. Kindred is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice; we handle the administrative work and coordinate an independent attorney where one is legally required.
You don't have to carry this alone.
Tell us about the estate on a free, no-obligation call. We'll map out exactly what needs to happen — and how we'd take it off your plate.
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