Detailed answer — step‑by‑step under Connecticut law

1. Confirm whether probate is required

Probate is usually required when the deceased owned assets titled in their name alone (bank accounts, stocks, real estate, vehicles, or personal property) in Connecticut. Small assets that have beneficiary designations, are jointly owned with rights of survivorship, or pass outside probate (transfer-on-death, payable-on-death) may avoid a full probate administration. If the estate only holds trivial assets or everything already transfers by beneficiary designation, you may not need to open a full probate case.

2. Locate the last domicile and the correct probate court

Probate in Connecticut is handled by the probate district where the deceased was a Connecticut resident (domiciled) at death. If your sibling lived in Connecticut, you must open the matter in that probate district. If you are unsure which district, contact the Connecticut Probate Court system for help locating the correct court: https://www.ctprobate.gov. The probate court you use controls the paperwork and steps required.

3. Find the original will (if any) and key documents

If there is a will, the named executor should normally present the original will to the probate court and petition to have it admitted to probate. If there is no will, an interested person (usually a next-of-kin) petitions to be appointed administrator of the estate. Gather the decedent’s original will, certified death certificate(s), account statements, deeds, insurance policies, and a list of likely heirs and creditors before filing.

4. Who can be appointed if you live out of state?

Being out of state does not automatically prevent you from serving as executor or administrator in Connecticut. Courts consider the suitability of the proposed personal representative. In practice:

• You can petition the court from out of state, often by mail or through an attorney. Many probate courts allow remote filing or submission by mail; check the local court’s rules.
• The court may require that the personal representative be willing to accept service of court papers in Connecticut or to appoint a Connecticut agent for service.
• The court may require a bond for the personal representative (security to protect estate creditors/heirs) unless the will waives a bond or statutory exemptions apply.

5. Practical filing options for out‑of‑state petitioners

Options you should consider:

• Hire a Connecticut probate attorney to file the petition and act as local contact. Attorneys frequently handle every step for out-of-state relatives and can appear in court if required.
• File yourself by mail or electronically if the probate district accepts remote filings. You will likely need notarized signatures on some forms and certified death certificates.
• Ask the court whether a local resident can act as co-representative or as agent for service to address any residency concerns.

6. Typical paperwork and court steps

1. Petition for Probate (if there is a will) or Petition for Probate and Appointment of Administrator (if intestate).
2. Submit the original will (if any) and a certified death certificate.
3. Pay the court filing fee (amounts vary by district).
4. Court issues Letters Testamentary (executor) or Letters of Administration (administrator) allowing you to collect assets and manage the estate.
5. Inventory and appraise estate assets; notify creditors and heirs as required by the court.
6. Resolve claims, pay estate debts, distribute assets, and file a final accounting or closing documents with the court when required.

7. Timeframes and creditor notices

Timeframes vary. Some creditor deadlines are statutory; others depend on when the court opens the estate and how quickly notices are sent. For protection, begin the process promptly after the death so that you can meet any notice and claim periods. Your local probate court or a Connecticut probate attorney can explain any applicable deadlines for creditor claims and filings.

8. Real property in Connecticut

If your sibling owned real estate in Connecticut, the probate court will control transfers that are governed by the decedent’s title. You may need to handle deeds, property taxes, and potential sale of the property. Real property issues often make it more practical to work with a local attorney or real estate professional.

9. When to hire a Connecticut probate attorney

Consider hiring a Connecticut attorney if any of the following apply:

• The estate includes real estate or complex assets (business interests, investment accounts).
• Heirs disagree about appointment or distribution.
• There are creditor disputes, tax issues, or a risk of litigation.
• You cannot travel easily to Connecticut and need someone to appear for you.

10. Where to get official forms and local guidance

Start with the Connecticut Probate Court system website for general information and contact details: https://www.ctprobate.gov. For statutes and legal text, consult the Connecticut General Assembly website: https://www.cga.ct.gov. Your chosen probate district can tell you the exact forms, fee amounts, and whether remote filings are permitted.

Important reminder: This guide explains common steps and options but does not replace legal advice tailored to your facts. Consult the probate court or a Connecticut attorney for instructions specific to your sibling’s estate.

Helpful Hints

• Get several certified death certificates early — courts, banks, and agencies request originals.
• Keep clear records of every estate communication, bank transfer, and receipt; the probate court will expect an accurate accounting.
• If travel is difficult, ask the probate court whether they accept mailed or electronic petitions and whether a Connecticut attorney can appear for you.
• Ask whether the will waives a bond. If not, be prepared to post a bond or find someone to act who can obtain one.
• Contact the probate court in the decedent’s district before filing to confirm local procedures and required forms.
• If you expect disputes among heirs, hire an attorney early to reduce the risk of contested litigation and delays.
• Preserve property (change locks, secure valuables) and maintain real estate to avoid deterioration or liability while probate proceeds.