Probate
If you’ve recently lost a loved one and are facing the legal process of probate, we understand how difficult and unfamiliar this time can be. Probate in California is a court-supervised procedure used to settle a person’s estate—validating their will, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to heirs or beneficiaries. Whether the estate is large or small, and whether there’s a will or not, our experienced team is here to guide you through each step with clarity, compassion, and efficiency.
Work Process
Information Gathering
Prior to our meeting, we obtain brief details about the estate, verify there are no client conflicts, and prepare for your consultation.
01
Filing & Court Appointment
We file the probate petition, submit the will, and help you obtain court approval to act as personal representative.
02
Managing Assets & Debts
We assist you in locating, valuing, and managing assets while guiding you through debt payments and tax filings.
03
Closing & Distribution
We help you complete a final accounting, petition the court to close the estate, and help you distribute the assets.
04
Pricing Plan
Probate Fee Structure
California law sets attorney fees for probate based on the gross value of the estate (Probate Code §10810).
These fees are statutory and court-approved, following a fixed percentage schedule and paid at the conclusion of the probate process.
Standard Statutory Fees
Estate Value
Attorney Fee
First $100,000
4% ($4,000)
Next $100,000
3% ($3,000)
Next $800,000
2% ($16,000)
Next $9,000,000
1%
Next $15,000,000
0.5%
Above $25,000,000
Determined by the court
For example, an estate valued at $1,500,000 would result in a statutory attorney fee of $28,000, which is paid from the estate’s assets after court approval.
While attorney fees are paid at the end of the probate process, our firm requires an initial deposit to cover out-of-pocket costs, such as court filing fees (typically around $435), publication fees, and probate referee appraisals. These costs are reimbursed from the estate once funds are available.