The start of 2011 signifies a change in the probate court system for the state reducing the number of courts from 117 to 54. Branford and North Branford probate court will be led by Judge Frank Forgione who is taking over the reigns from Judge John Donegan. Forgione is Branford born and raised and is thrilled about his new position. Of the job, Forgione says, "The court is truly a people's court; we are here to help people during difficulty and distress."
The probate office is located in Town Hall and offers many services to the residents of Branford, including:
- Probating wills and the administration of estates.
- Overseeing testamentary and living trust
- Determining title to real personal property.
- Construing the meaning of wills and trusts.
- Appointing guardians for the mentally retarded.
- Appointing conservators of the person and the estate of incapable individuals.
- Committing those suffering from mental illness, alcoholism, or drug addiction to an appropriate facility.
- Removing unfit parents as guardians of their children.
- Terminating the parental rights of parents who cannot fulfill their parental responsibilities.
- Granting adoptions.
- Granting name changes.
- Additionally Branford and North Branford Probate Court offers passports and renewals.