Practice Areas
We prioritize getting to know you and understanding your family dynamic because each client is unique.
Our personalized approach sets us apart from other estate planning attorneys. We provide virtual planning services to accommodate your busy schedule. And most of our services are available at a flat fee, so you won’t have to worry about unexpected bills once your estate plan is finalized.
What Are the Costs of Probate in California?​​
​​​​The costs of probate in California can vary widely, depending on factors such as the estate's size, complexity, and the specific requirements outlined in California's probate laws. Court fees are a required part of the probate process and include the costs associated with filing probate petitions and publishing legal notices. Additionally, attorney and executor fees are often calculated as a percentage of the estate’s value, which can increase the overall cost, especially for larger estates. Appraisal fees are based on the value of the estate's gross assets, and there may also be costs for certifying documents. Consider that gross value does not consider any debts owed on property!
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California Probate Court Filing Fee
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One of the first steps in the probate process is paying a filing fee. As of 2024, this fee is $435, which must be paid when the executor or administrator files a petition to open a probate case. It's important to verify the most current filing fee with the local probate court, as these fees can change over time. This filing fee is just one component of the total probate expenses, and it is necessary to proceed with the process. If the filing fee presents a financial hardship, individuals may be able to apply for a waiver, provided they meet the criteria for economic hardship. However, it's worth noting that additional administrative fees may arise during the probate process, often totaling more than $1,000.
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Extraordinary Fees
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Extraordinary fees differ from standard probate fees and are paid to executors, personal representatives, or attorneys for tasks that require more than the usual effort or specialized expertise. These tasks might include handling complex legal disputes, managing a decedent's business, addressing environmental issues with real estate, or dealing with complicated tax matters.
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If these extraordinary circumstances arise, the court may approve additional compensation to cover the services provided. However, these fees are not guaranteed and are subject to the court’s discretion, depending on the nature of the work involved.​
Probate Fees for
Administering an Estate
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California has set statutory fee schedules to compensate executors, personal representatives, and attorneys involved in probate. These fees are based on a percentage of the gross value of the estate, which is the total value of all assets before deducting debts. The fee structure is as follows:​
Estate Value Probate Fee
First $100,000 4%
Next $100,000 3%
Next $800,000 2%
Next $9 million 1%
Next $15 million 0.5%
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For illustration, an estate valued at $3,000,000 would incur probate fees in the range of $210,000!