Finding a Probate Attorney: Tips & Advice

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Steps to Finding a Probate Attorney
• Probate Fees in California
• Filing Probate in Los Angeles
• LA County Probate Court Availability
• Looking Up Probate Cases in California

Introduction

A probate attorney specializes in helping people navigate the probate process. The probate process is the legal process of settling a person’s estate in accordance with the terms of the person’s will. The probate process may involve various legal tasks, such as filing paperwork, making sure that assets are distributed legally, and ensuring that creditors are paid. It can also be complicated and time-consuming. A probate attorney can help make sure the process goes as smoothly as possible.

Steps to Finding a Probate Attorney

Finding a probate attorney can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some steps to finding the right probate attorney for your situation:

• Research local attorneys: Start by researching attorneys in your area who specialize in probate law. You can find this information online or by asking people in your community who’ve been through the probate process.
• Look for experience: After you’ve narrowed down your list of potential attorneys, find out more about their experience. Look for attorneys with experience handling probate cases in your state, and make sure they have a good reputation.
• Interview attorneys: Once you have a shortlist of attorneys, schedule consultations with each one. Ask them questions about their experience and expertise, and explain your situation and needs. Be sure to get a clear understanding of their fees and any other costs before making your decision.
• Choose an attorney: Once you’ve interviewed all of the attorneys, choose the one you feel is the best fit for your situation. Make sure you are comfortable with their fees, and that you trust them to handle your probate case.

Probate Fees in California

In California, probate fees are generally based on a percentage of the value of the estate. The exact amount will depend on the estate’s value, but typical fees range from 4% for estates valued under $100,000 to 12% for estates valued over $1 million. These fees are paid to the court and are used to cover the costs of administering the estate.

Filing Probate in Los Angeles

If you need to file probate in Los Angeles, you must first determine which court has jurisdiction over the case. Generally, probate cases are handled by the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. You can file your probate paperwork at the court’s Central District office in downtown Los Angeles.

LA County Probate Court Availability

The Los Angeles County Probate Court is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The court is closed on all state holidays. In addition, the court offers “Lawyer in the Library” services on the first Tuesday of each month from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Central District office.

Looking Up Probate Cases in California

If you need to look up a probate case in California, you can search the database at the California Superior Court website. The database contains information about probate cases for all 58 California counties. You can search for cases by case number, filing date, or the name of the decedent or executor.