California Probate
Can I be the executor of my own family member's estate without a lawyer?
Short answer
Legally yes. In practice, California probate is complex enough that most people hire an attorney. The court self-help centers at California Superior Courts can help with basic paperwork. If the estate is straightforward — no real estate, no business, no disputes —…
What this usually means
Legally yes. In practice, California probate is complex enough that most people hire an attorney. The court self-help centers at California Superior Courts can help with basic paperwork. If the estate is straightforward — no real estate, no business, no disputes — self-representation is more feasible.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.