Probate court highlights preservation of 1812 docket and seeks modest pay increases for certified clerks
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Summary
Probate court staff described preservation work on an early 19th‑century docket, noted the court's e‑filing capabilities, and asked commissioners to consider pay increases to retain highly certified staff who perform sensitive duties.
Probate court staff briefed Madison County commissioners on preservation work for longstanding records and on staffing needs tied to specialized certifications.
The court reported that one docket—an early‑19th‑century record of slave‑trial proceedings—has been rebound and scanned for public access; staff said the scanned volume is already posted on the county website. Officials described ongoing conservation work and occasional use of a small line‑item for printing and binding to preserve brittle court documents.
Probate staff urged the board to consider modest pay increases for probate clerks who hold specialized certifications. The presenters said several clerks are certified through the Institute for Continuing Judicial Education and have completed a rigorous 90‑hour certification program; staff also handle background checks for weapons‑carry licenses and must be trained to work with the GBI and FBI for certain record checks. Probate staff said retaining certified personnel is important because the work cannot readily be performed by untrained temporary staff.
On process issues, staff said Madison County participates in e‑filing for probate matters and that attorneys can e‑file in the county; however, postage remains a line‑item because by law certain notices and probate mailings still require paper service to heirs and others.
Commissioners did not vote on the requests; staff said they will integrate the asks into the ongoing budget review.