Does every estate in Los Angeles go through probate?

No. Assets held in a living trust, joint accounts, and accounts with named beneficiaries usually pass outside probate. Estates above California's small-estate limit without a trust generally require probate.

Who inherits if there is no will?

California intestate succession law decides — usually a spouse or registered domestic partner, then children, then parents, siblings and other relatives.

How long does probate take in Los Angeles?

Often a year or more, depending on the estate, the court's calendar and whether anyone objects. Disputes can extend the timeline.

Which court handles Los Angeles probate?

Los Angeles County Superior Court, Probate Division, with the main probate department at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse downtown.

Probate attorney Los Angeles

Probate Attorney in Los Angeles for Heirs and Beneficiaries

When a loved one passes away without a trust — or with only a will — the estate usually goes through probate court. We specialize in helping heirs and beneficiaries protect and recover their inheritance through the Los Angeles probate process.

Tell Us What Happened

Problem

When you may need a probate attorney

One sign alone does not decide a legal matter. The full facts and documents need to be considered.

There is no will and no trust, and no one has opened probate.
There is a will, but the executor is delaying or not communicating.
A relative took control of the house, accounts, or belongings.
You were left out or given less than expected.
You received a probate notice or a hearing date is coming up.

Potential next steps

What may be considered

Depending on the facts, the documents and available evidence may point toward one or more options.

Open probate and request appointment as administrator

Protect your share under California intestate succession

Demand information, inventory and accounting from the executor

Object to improper fees, sales or distributions

Petition to recover estate property taken by others (Probate Code §850)

Contest a will when the facts support it

How the firm may help

Start With the Documents, Assets and Timeline

An attorney can review what controls the inheritance, what has happened so far, and whether a legal response may be appropriate. No particular outcome can be promised.

Request a Case Review

Common questions

Probate attorney Los Angeles FAQ

Free confidential case review

Let's Start With What Happened

Takes 1 minute. Next, you can add more details so our team can review your case faster.

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A clear next step

Start by Explaining What Happened.

You do not need to identify every legal issue before asking for a review.

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