When someone passes away owning assets that aren’t in a trust or otherwise exempt, the estate usually goes through probate. Here’s the California probate process, step by step.
Step 1: Open the case
File the Petition for Probate (DE-111) with the will (if any) in the county where the person lived, and pay the fee.
Step 2: Notice & appointment
Notify heirs (DE-121) and publish notice. At the hearing the court appoints a personal representative and issues Letters (DE-150).
Step 3: Inventory & creditors
File an Inventory and Appraisal (DE-160), notify creditors, and pay valid debts and taxes.
Step 4: Distribute & close
Petition to distribute remaining assets to the heirs and close the estate. Formal probate often takes 9–18 months.
Can you avoid it?
Small estates under the limit can use a simpler affidavit — see our small-estate guide — and a living trust avoids probate entirely.
How Curbside Legal helps
We prepare the full probate petition and packet, court-ready. Get the DIY probate packet or have us prepare it.
Curbside Legal is a legal document preparation service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Court fees are separate.