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Find out if you can handle probate yourself, see estimated cost savings vs. hiring an attorney, and get a step-by-step filing checklist.
Yes. Self-filing in San Francisco County works best for straightforward estates with a clear will and few beneficiaries.
File at the Superior Court - Probate Court, 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).
San Francisco County requires e-filing for probate matters. Mandatory for attorneys. Self-represented parties may request exemption via form EFS-007.
San Francisco County doesn't have a dedicated probate self-help center, so self-filers should confirm local procedures with the court clerk.
Yes, you can file probate without a lawyer in California, though the process may require more effort depending on estate complexity.Cal. Prob. Code §§ 10800, 10810 (statutory fee schedule), 13100/13200 (small estate), 890. Thresholds verified against Judicial Council "Maximum Amounts for Determining Eligibility for Summary Succession Procedures" (eff. April 1, 2025; next adjustment April 1, 2028). AB 2016 (Stats. 2024, ch. 331) added $750K primary residence succession under §§ 13150-13157.Verified May 5, 2026 Many California courts offer self-help resources and standardized forms.
Court filing fees in California vary by county.Cal. Prob. Code §§ 10800, 10810 (statutory fee schedule), 13100/13200 (small estate), 890. Thresholds verified against Judicial Council "Maximum Amounts for Determining Eligibility for Summary Succession Procedures" (eff. April 1, 2025; next adjustment April 1, 2028). AB 2016 (Stats. 2024, ch. 331) added $750K primary residence succession under §§ 13150-13157.Verified May 5, 2026 Self-filing costs typically include the court petition fee, publication costs, and bond premiums. The filing fee is a fraction of total probate costs. See a full breakdown with the California probate calculator.
In-depth guides covering California probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
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