California Probate
How does California probate work, step by step?
Short answer
Step 1: File a petition with the Superior Court in the county where the deceased lived. Step 2: Court sets a hearing date and appoints an executor. Step 3: Court issues letters testamentary. Step 4: Executor notifies creditors by publication and direct…
What this usually means
Step 1: File a petition with the Superior Court in the county where the deceased lived. Step 2: Court sets a hearing date and appoints an executor. Step 3: Court issues letters testamentary. Step 4: Executor notifies creditors by publication and direct notice. Step 5: Creditors have 4 months to file claims. Step 6: Executor manages and inventories assets. Step 7: Executor files accounting with the court. Step 8: Court approves distribution. Step 9: Assets distributed to heirs. This typically takes 9–18 months.
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.