How Do I File Probate in San Francisco County, California?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Superior Court - Probate Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
If you're handling probate yourself in San Francisco County, California, you can file at the Superior Court - Probate Court 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 Probate Court (Department 204), Probate Department Investigators, Probate Section Clerk's Office Supervisor, and Hall of Justice. 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 Francisco 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 Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full San Francisco County Self-Filing Assessment.
San Francisco County Filing Requirements
These are specific requirements for filing probate in this county. Following these guidelines will help avoid delays or rejected filings.
Document Requirements
Conservator petitions must include Judicial Council form GC-325 (Confidential Declaration on Medical Ability to Attend Hearing).
Other Requirements
Motion rulings generally available by 3:00 PM the court day prior to motion.
In-Person Filing
The Superior Court - Probate Court is located at 400 McAllister Street, Department 204, San Francisco, CA 94102. Phone: 415-551-3673. Hours: Clerk: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM (Closed 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM; dropbox available during lunch).
What to Bring
To file at the Superior Court - Probate Court 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 Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Superior Court - Probate Court in San Francisco 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 Francisco 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 Court staff can accept filings but cannot give legal advice. Check the California self-filing assessment before deciding.
Yes. The Superior Court - Probate Court in San Francisco 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 Court
San Francisco County
400 McAllister Street, Department 204
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone:
415-551-3673Hours:
Clerk: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM (Closed 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM; dropbox available during lunch)
Paper Filing Available
E-Filing Optional
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
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