10/31/2023

California Probate Rules









CALFORNIA Probate Rules

Probate hearings in California are held in the Probate Department of the Superior Court in the county where the decedent lived at the time of their death. The petition should be filed at the Superior Court office located in the county in which the decedent resided. This can be found on the county of record’s website. Every county provides the blank fillable forms needed. This is not a simple process, and the forms need to be correct, or the judge will delay your process. The forms may be hand written if legible- print very carefully. All documentation submitted by pdf must be clear and readable.

The Probate Department handles decedents' estates, trusts, and conservatorships. It also hears petitions to establish fact of birth, death, and marriage as well as elder abuse petitions. 

 

·        Probate time limits:

In California, executors or administrators of estates have one year to complete probate. However, extensions can be requested when delays occur. The probate process generally takes 12 to 18 months.

·        Probate not necessary if under this dollar amount total:

Probate is not necessary if the total value of the assets at the time of death does not exceed $166,250. This figure does not include vehicles and certain other assets. Since real estate property in California is high cost, many families/heirs find they will need to go through probate. You will need a copy of any mortgage payment on the real estate and HOA bills.

·        Hearing dates:

The court could set a hearing date 15 days after the petition is filed. However, most probate courts set hearings between 30 and 45 days from filing. Some courts still allow virtual hearings, see your county website.

·        Notice requirements

Notice must be given by first class mail or by personally delivering a copy to each person or entity at least 15 days prior to the hearing. Each person should receive a copy of the "Notice of Petition to Administer Estate" showing the hearing date information.

·        Factors for attorney's fee

Rule 7.955(b) of California Rules of Court contains a list of factors courts may consider in determining a reasonable attorney's fee. These factors include the experience, reputation, and ability of the attorney performing the legal services, and the time and labor required.

Initial filing fee for a probate case in California is $435

Additional fees 

  • Petitions: For the appointment of a personal representative, objections to petitions, or other court filings
  • Copies: To certify copies of court documents
  • Notice: To publicize probate notice

Fee waivers If you can demonstrate in writing financial hardship, you can apply to the court for a fee waiver. 

Attorney fees California is one of a handful of states that allows attorneys to bill according to a percentage of the total value of the estate. For example, lawyers can collect 2.5 percent in fees. The executor of the estate can claim the same fee.