Estate Planning & Probate in Contra Costa County, California
Most Contra Costa County estate questions come down to one fork: avoid probate before a death, or work through it after one. Pick the path that fits, then work from the local Superior Court - Probate Division details.
Someone died — settling an estate
Filing probate at the Superior Court - Probate Division, what it costs, transferring property, and local attorneys.
What to do when someone dies in Contra Costa County→Planning ahead as a property owner
Keep a Contra Costa County home out of probate with a transfer-on-death deed or a living trust.
Estate planning in Contra Costa County→The Probate Process in Contra Costa County
Probate is the court-supervised process of settling someone's estate after they die — validating the will, paying debts and taxes, and transferring what's left to the heirs. In Contra Costa County, probate runs through the Superior Court - Probate Division at 725 Court Street, Martinez.
Full Contra Costa Countyprobate guide: cost, how to file & attorneys →Probate Court Record
Superior Court - Probate Division
Contra Costa County
Recording Deeds & Property Documents
Recording Office Record
County Clerk-Recorder
Contra Costa County · County Clerk-Recorder · Kristin B. Connelly
Address
Phone
Hours
E-recording
$14 for the first page plus $3 for each additional page; a 2-page TOD deed records for $92; TOD deeds are exempt from transfer tax.
Full recording details →Verified September 4, 2026 · Source
Local Procedures at the Superior Court - Probate Division
Ex Parte applications heard at Room 210, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (sign in 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM). Conservators must complete Conservatorship Workshop (register at Public Law Library: 925-655-4627). Professional fiduciaries exempt.
California Estate Planning Articles
Articles about estate planning, probate, and trusts relevant to families in Contra Costa County.
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