How Do I Get Appointed as Executor in California?

See the appointing court, the petition that opens the estate, what to file, and bond rules to be appointed in your state.

Got the Letters? Run the whole estate from here.

Frequently Asked Questions

California uses Petition for Probate (DE-111), filed with the Superior Court of California (Probate Division). After the court grants the petition, Superior Court clerk, after the judge signs the Order for Probate (DE-140) issues your Letters Testamentary (with a will) or Letters of Administration (without a will).

Along with the petition, California generally requires: Certified copy of the death certificate; Original will and any codicils (lodged with the court) (Cal. Prob. Code § 8200); Notice of Petition to Administer Estate (DE-121) with proof of publication and mailed notice (§§ 8100, 8120); Duties and Liabilities of Personal Representative (DE-147); Proposed Order for Probate (DE-140); Bond unless waived (Cal. Prob. Code §§ 8480-8481).

Yes. California requires a bond by default before Letters issue. A will can waive it. Beneficiaries can also waive it in writing.

California permits self-represented filers to open an estate, using Petition for Probate (DE-111). E-filing is available. The Self-File Probate Assessment compares self-filing and attorney costs for California.

Yes. A revocable living trust passes assets to beneficiaries without any court appointment in California — no petition, no Letters, no bond. A revocable trust built with SimplyTrust takes about 15 minutes.

California Estate Planning Resources

In-depth guides covering California probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.