Paperwork and process
How do I find out if they had a will?
Short answer
Check their home files, safe deposit box, attorney, and estate planning software or services they may have used (LegalZoom, Trust & Will, etc.). Some counties have will registries — search the Superior Court in the county where they lived.
What this usually means
Check their home files, safe deposit box, attorney, and estate planning software or services they may have used (LegalZoom, Trust & Will, etc.). Some counties have will registries — search the Superior Court in the county where they lived.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.