Practice Area 01
When a loved one passes away, the legal responsibilities that follow can feel daunting, especially during an already difficult time. REPP Law brings clarity and compassion to the California probate process, helping families understand their rights, fulfill their legal obligations, and resolve estates efficiently. We represent executors, administrators, heirs, and beneficiaries through every phase of California probate, from the initial petition to the final distribution of assets.
Understanding Probate
Probate is the court-supervised legal process through which a deceased person’s assets are collected, debts are paid, and remaining property is distributed to heirs or beneficiaries.
The Process Typically Involves
We represent executors, administrators, heirs, and beneficiaries through every phase of California probate — from the initial petition to the final distribution of assets.
How REPP Law Helps
01
Probate Administration
We guide executors and administrators through every required step — court filings, creditor notices, asset inventories, tax obligations, and final accountings — so estates are closed correctly and efficiently.
This service includes
02
Spousal Property Petitions
California offers a simplified process for surviving spouses to confirm their rights to community property and certain separate property assets, often without a full probate proceeding — saving time, cost, and court complexity.
This option may apply when
03
Non-Probate Transfers
Not all assets must go through probate. Assets held in trust, payable-on-death accounts, jointly held property, and certain beneficiary-designated accounts may transfer outside the probate process.
Assets that may transfer outside probate
04
Contested Probate Matters
When heirs or beneficiaries dispute the validity of a will, the conduct of an executor, or the distribution of assets, the process becomes significantly more complex. We advise clients on their rights and obligations.
Common contested matters include
Probate Costs
California law sets statutory fees for probate attorneys and executors under Probate Code § 10810. Fees are calculated in tiers based on the gross value of the estate — before debts or mortgages are subtracted.
Probate fees can often be avoided entirely through proper estate planning — particularly through a living trust.
Estate Value Tier
Statutory Fee
A Practical Guide
Every estate is different. A brief consultation with our firm can clarify exactly what you’re facing and what you can do to protect the estate and your family.
01
Secure certified copies of the death certificate
You will typically need 5–8 certified copies for banks, agencies, and legal proceedings.
02
Locate the will, trust documents, and financial accounts
Gather all estate planning documents, account statements, and property deeds.
03
Notify Social Security, pension providers, and employers
Government agencies, financial institutions, and insurance companies all require notification.
04
Do not distribute assets or close accounts until you've consulted an attorney
Early missteps can create personal liability for the executor and delay the estate.
05
Contact REPP Law to assess whether probate is required
A brief consultation clarifies exactly what you’re facing, what your role will be, and what steps to take to protect the estate and your family.
Local Knowledge Matters
Probate court procedures vary significantly by county. REPP Law has experience filing and appearing in each of these courts – our familiarity with local timelines and procedures helps clients move through the process efficiently.
San Diego Superior Court
Probate Division — handling estates across San Diego County communities
Orange County Superior Court
Probate Division — serving Orange County’s diverse communities and business districts
Los Angeles Superior Court
Probate Division — one of the largest and most complex probate courts in California
Riverside County Superior Court
Probate Division — serving the rapidly growing communities of Riverside County
