California probate guide

Probate process in California

California probate is supervised by the Superior Court and is notoriously slow — most estates take 9-18 months. The Petition for Probate filing fee is $435 under Gov. Code § 70650. The small-estate affidavit threshold rose to $208,850 on April 1, 2025 (Prob. Code § 890, adjusted every three years). California is a community-property state and recognizes the Revocable TOD Deed under Prob. Code § 5600 et seq.

California probate at a glance

Court
Superior Court (Probate Division)
Typical timeline
36–78 weeks
Filing fee
$435
Small-estate threshold
$208,850
TOD deed allowed?
Yes
Bond required by default?
Yes (unless waived)
Statute
Cal. Prob. Code §§ 6500 et seq.; § 13100 (small estates)

Source: www.courts.ca.gov. Fees and thresholds change — verify with your county court before filing.

How California probate works, step by step

  1. 1File Petition for Probate (Form DE-111) with the Superior Court
  2. 2Court holds hearing and appoints executor or administrator
  3. 3Publish Notice of Petition and notify heirs and creditors
  4. 4Inventory and appraise assets via court-appointed probate referee
  5. 5File final accounting, petition for distribution, and close the estate

Probate by county in California

Filing fees, court contacts, and process detail for 9 California counties:

Protect your family from another probate — get a free life insurance quote

Most California families never plan ahead. A 30-second quote from a licensed agent costs nothing and could save your heirs months of probate court.

This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county and changes over time. Consult a licensed California probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.