How Do I File Probate in San Diego County, California?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Superior Court - Probate Division—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
If you're handling probate yourself in San Diego County, California, you can file at the Superior Court - Probate Division in person or by mail. E-filing is mandatory for attorneys but families filing without one are exempt and can use paper forms.
Filings here are routed through the Central Courthouse. Confirm with the office which intake handles the petition type you're filing.
Your Filing Options
How to File Your Documents
Paper Filing Available
You can file your probate documents in person or by mail. While attorneys are required to e-file in San Diego County, families handling probate themselves are exempt and can file on paper.
E-Filing Also Available
If you prefer, you can file electronically through the state's online system. This is optional for families filing without an attorney.
View E-Filing InformationCan You File Without an Attorney?
Not every estate requires an attorney. Factors like estate size, asset types, and whether beneficiaries agree can determine if self-filing at the Superior Court - Probate Division is realistic for your situation.
PKT-057 Decedent's Estate Packet. Self-represented parties supported; see the Wills, Estates & Trusts self-help page.
Get the San Diego County probate forms →For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full San Diego County Self-Filing Assessment.
San Diego County Filing Requirements
These are specific requirements for filing probate in this county. Following these guidelines will help avoid delays or rejected filings.
Before You File
Documents must comply with applicable Probate Code sections and California Rules of Court.
Document Requirements
All orders/decrees must be complete and include introductory paragraphs with petition title, ROA number, date/time of hearing, department number, and judge's name.
Other Requirements
Division IV - Probate local rules effective January 1, 2026. Individual judges have specific policies and procedures.
Phone hours: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM.
San Diego County Forms
This county uses specific forms in addition to state-standard forms. Using the correct forms helps avoid delays or rejected filings.
PKT-057 Decedent's Estate Packet
DownloadSelf-help packet for opening a decedent's estate
In-Person Filing
The Superior Court - Probate Division is located at 1100 Union Street, 3rd Floor, San Diego, CA 92101. Phone: 619-844-2676. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM.
Probate hearings are typically scheduled Probate calendars heard the last two weeks of each month: Estate appointments Thursdays 1:30 PM; accountings Thursdays 2:30 PM; miscellaneous probate Tuesdays 9:30 AM; guardianship Wednesdays 9:00 AM; conservatorship Wednesdays 11:00 AM.
Before You Go
Walk-ins accepted
You can file in person without an appointment. Probate Business Office at Central Courthouse open Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM for in-person filings, form/packet purchase, record viewing, and will deposits.
Accepted payment
Check, Credit card. Probate fees payable by check to Clerk of the Court, or by credit card via SDSC Form ADM-253.
What to Bring
To file at the Superior Court - Probate Division you need: the original will (or proof there isn't one), a certified death certificate, contact information for all heirs and beneficiaries, and a summary of what the estate owns and owes.
Court Resources
Additional resources, forms, and fee schedules are available on the Superior Court - Probate Division website.
Court information verified June 2, 2026 · Source
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Superior Court - Probate Division in San Diego County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($435). Once the court issues letters, the personal representative can act.
At minimum: petition for probate, application for letters testamentary or of administration, notice to heirs, and an oath for the personal representative. San Diego County uses the standard California probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
California permits self-representation, but formal probate procedures make it impractical for most families. The Superior Court - Probate Division staff can accept filings but cannot give legal advice. Check the California self-filing assessment before deciding.
Yes. The Superior Court - Probate Division in San Diego County accepts e-filing through the state portal. In-person filing at the courthouse is still available for those without digital access.
Assets stay locked, creditors can still pursue them, and beneficiaries cannot sell real property or close accounts. After a few years, interested parties can petition to open probate themselves. Waiting rarely helps. Families who set up a revocable living trust ahead of time bypass this problem entirely.
Superior Court - Probate Division
San Diego County
1100 Union Street, 3rd Floor
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone:
619-844-2676Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Paper Filing Available
E-Filing Optional
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
Is this your situation?
Get a complete guide for your specific circumstances.
Named as Executor
Being named executor means navigating probate, managing assets, and distributing the estate. What's expected, what you can charge, and how to start.
Learn more
Death of a Parent
Losing a parent is overwhelming. What needs to happen next — settling the estate, navigating probate, and the steps to move forward.
Learn more
