At The Grossman Law Firm, our California probate attorneys help families handle probate from start to finish. Probate is often necessary, but rarely simple.
If you’ve lost a family member and need help figuring out what happens next, we’re here to walk you through it, step by step.
If the deceased person owned assets in their name—like a house, a bank account, or a vehicle—those assets generally can’t be transferred until a probate case is opened with the court.
Once the process begins, the court will supervise the administration of the estate, ensuring debts are paid, notices are sent, and assets are distributed according to the will (or, if there’s no will, according to California law).
In California, the probate process generally takes 1-2 years.
Probate is full of rules, forms, and waiting periods. One missed deadline or document could delay the entire process, or worse, invite legal challenges. Many families try to avoid it altogether, only to find out that it’s unavoidable once real property, vehicles, or financial accounts are involved.
Common challenges include:
You don’t have to figure it out alone. We’re here to help you get it right the first time.
We guide families through the probate process with clarity, care, and legal precision.
Here’s how we help:
Probate doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right support, it can be straightforward and stress-free.
At The Grossman Law Firm, we know probate isn’t just paperwork—it’s a legal process that can feel overwhelming and expensive when you’re already dealing with loss. That’s why we’ve created this easy-to-use Probate Calculator. Based on California’s statutory fee structure, it helps you understand what you might pay in attorney and executor fees, depending on the size of the estate.
Whether you’re just getting started or trying to plan ahead, this tool gives you a clearer picture of what to expect—so you can move forward with confidence.
We can’t help unless you reach out. Call us or fill out the contact form to tell us what’s going on. You’ll hear back from us within one business day, often sooner.
At The Grossman Law Firm, we’ve helped families across California get through probate without the stress and confusion. Whether you’re the person named in the will or you’ve just found yourself in charge, we make sure everything is done right, on time, and with as little burden on you as possible.
We don’t dabble. This is what we do.
We’ll tell you where you stand and what comes next.
We litigate, not just negotiate. When a fight is necessary, we’re ready.
Trusted across California for complex trust and inheritance disputes.
We know this is personal. We treat it that way.
Probate is required when a deceased person owns property in their name only, and there’s no other legal way to transfer that property. This often includes real estate, vehicles, and bank accounts.
No. Smaller estates may qualify for simplified procedures, and assets held in trusts, joint accounts, or with named beneficiaries often skip probate. We’ll help you determine what’s required.
Typically 1-2 years, depending on the complexity of the estate and whether disputes arise. We’ll help keep things on track and avoid unnecessary delays.
If no will exists, the estate is distributed under California’s intestacy laws. We’ll walk you through how that works and who inherits what.
Usually, the person named in the will. If there’s no will, a family member can petition the court to be appointed. We’ll help you with the paperwork and process.
Yes. If the executor is neglecting their duties, misusing funds, or causing delays, they can be challenged and replaced through the court.
We handle the paperwork, meet deadlines, resolve issues, and make sure the estate is distributed properly. Our goal is to give you peace of mind through every step. From filing court documents to communicating with heirs and creditors, we take care of the details so you don’t have to. You’ll always know what’s happening, what to expect next, and that your loved one’s wishes are being honored.
Our firm is paid statutory fees, which are spelled out in California law. You can estimate the statutory fees on our Probate Calculator.
When there is a problem with the probate case and someone challenges the will, or the appointment of the administrator, or petitions the court to instruct the executor or administrator to act responsibly, or challenges the accounting or the proposed distribution of the estate, probate litigation has begun.
Some assets, like those held in a trust, joint account, or with named beneficiaries, can avoid probate. But if a person passes away owning property solely in their name and the estate exceeds California’s minimum value threshold, probate is usually required. Once that happens, it’s too late to avoid the process. We can help you determine what qualifies and what doesn’t.
To begin probate, we’ll typically need a copy of the will (if one exists), the death certificate, and any available financial records or property documents. Every case is different, so we’ll walk you through exactly what’s needed for your situation.
You can, but probate is a legal process with strict rules, forms, and deadlines. Even people who hire lawyers still have responsibilities. Handling probate alone often leads to costly mistakes and delays. We help you avoid those problems and make sure things are done right from the start.
Every probate case we’ve handled has been completed in good standing with the court. We’re committed to getting things done properly and efficiently, no matter how complex the case may be.
Yes. The Grossman Law Firm focuses on complicated probate and trust disputes, including cases involving contested wills, difficult family dynamics, or large estates. These are the cases we’re known for.
We represent clients in probate courts throughout California. No matter where you live in the state, we can help.
Probate won’t happen on its own. If a loved one has passed and there’s property to transfer, the next step is yours to take. And while the process may feel overwhelming, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Let us handle the legal side, so you can focus on what matters most: honoring your loved one’s memory, caring for your family, and beginning to heal. We’ll be here to guide you every step of the way, with clarity, compassion, and unwavering support. Contact us today (link to contact form).
Our Intake Specialists can evaluate your case to assess your situation at no cost to you. Qualifying cases will be scheduled for a Free Phone Consultation with Attorney Scott Grossman.
