A Guide for Manhattan / New York County Families by Keystone Pinnacle
We are not affiliated with New York County Surrogate's Court.
Manhattan Surrogate's Court
Without the Runaround
Probate, administration, forms, and step-by-step guides for New York County Surrogate's Court. No legal jargon. No guesswork.
Or call (516) 703-6942
& Unbiased
Who Care
Every Step
What's Your Situation?
I inherited a house
Learn how to handle inherited property in Manhattan
Someone passed away with a will
Step-by-step guide to the probate process
Someone passed away without a will
How to get Letters of Administration
I received a citation from the court
What it means and what to do next
I don't know if I need probate or administration
Tool to figure out which process applies to you
I need court forms
New York County Surrogate's Court forms directory
What Brings You to
Surrogate's Court?
Select your situation below for step-by-step instructions, required forms, and realistic timelines.
What Happens After a
Loved One Passes
Obtain the Death Certificate
Request certified copies from the funeral home or NYC vital records.
Locate the Will (If One Exists)
Check the decedent's records, attorney files, and safe deposit box.
Determine the Type of Proceeding
Probate (with a will), Administration (no will), or Small Estate (under $50K).
Gather Required Documents
Death certificate, will, asset information, heir details, and required court forms.
File the Petition
Submit your petition and supporting documents to the New York County Surrogate's Court in Manhattan.
Serve Citation to Interested Parties
All heirs and beneficiaries must be notified via citation or waiver.
Attend the Court Hearing
The court reviews the petition. If approved, Letters are issued.
Administer the Estate
Collect assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute to beneficiaries.
Built for People Like You
Grieving Families
A loved one just passed. You have no idea where to start. We tell you exactly what to do.
Citation Recipients
You got a legal citation in the mail. Don't ignore it. We break down what it means and your next move.
Inherited Property Owners
You inherited a house or apartment in Manhattan and need to figure out your options — sell, keep, or transfer.
Guardianship Petitioners
A minor child inherited money or property and you need to file for guardianship of their assets.
Keystone PinnacleProperty AdvisorsKeystone Pinnacle Property Advisors
This site provides free guides and resources. But when you need personalized help — selling inherited property, navigating court filings, or understanding your specific situation — Keystone Pinnacle is here for you.
With hands-on experience in New York County (Manhattan) Surrogate's Court proceedings, estate property transactions, and bilingual service (English/Spanish), Keystone Pinnacle helps families turn a complicated legal process into a clear path forward.
Quick Resources
Manhattan (New York County) Probate & Real Estate Checklist
A plain-English checklist covering every step from filing the petition to closing on the property. 2026 edition — includes the latest ET-85 and ET-117 requirements.
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Court Departments
31 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007
| Department | Phone |
|---|---|
| Chief Clerk's Office | (646) 386-5000 |
| Probate Department | (646) 386-5004 |
| Administration / Small Estates | (646) 386-5005 |
| Guardianship / Adoption | (646) 386-5003 |
| Accounting Department | (646) 386-5002 |
| Records Room | (646) 386-5090 |
| Cashier / Certificates | (646) 386-5006 |
| Help Center (Self-Represented) | (646) 386-5208 |
Inherited a House in Manhattan?
Selling inherited property involves court filings, tax clearances, and title issues that most agents don't understand. Keystone Pinnacle specializes in exactly this.
Get a free consultation — we'll walk you through the process, the timeline, and what documents you need.
Not legal advice — estate property advisory and court filing guidance.
Send Us a Message
Contact Information
Phone
(516) 703-6942Location
Elmont, NY
Serving all of New York
Office Hours
Mon – Fri: 9AM – 6PM
Sat: By Appointment
Schedule a Consultation
Prefer to talk? Book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your estate property situation.
Need the Court Directly?
For official court business:
(646) 386-500031 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007