How to Probate an Estate in California

Even if you're not acting as executor (or can't decide if you should), any party to probate should consider this book a "must-have". It is written for an executor but there is so much information on the 'mysterious' court procedures, anyone involved in a CA probate would be well-served by purchasing this book if for nothing other than to know "what is probate?" and "what is going on?"

As executor, it's easy enough to find the forms on California court sites, and some (sites) have sketchy details to assist in filling them out (the court probate examiner informed me the most common cause of delays in an individual probate case is due to improperly filled out forms). But even this relatively simple step requires you have an understanding of how the civil court system works; something I am fairly certain too few people have (myself included). Not only does this book familiarize you with the court system and its procedures (a rewarding learning experience in its own right), as well as gameplan the (typical) entire probate process but shows in explicit detail how to fill out every line of every form you'll most likely need.

None of this is to say probate is easy - I have not found mine to be and the estate was relatively simple. DIY probate is a lot of (detail/organizational) work. But I believe a large amount of the work involved for the first-time DIYer is due to unfamiliarity with the law, court procedures and its paperwork. Reading the book gave me the confidence that even so, I could do it myself and consult with an attorney on occasion rather than just washing my hands of it (and a pile of cash) by turning probate over to an attorney at the outset.

I was fortunate in that my probate case was relatively straightforward to be handled as it was. But even if it weren't, you MUST arm yourself with information of this nature if you're considering hiring an attorney. Get that information in one topical, detailed and pleasant-reading book.

Thanks so much Julia!


Indispensable. Beautifully written, thoughtfully compiled, and will save you a fortune.   January 1, 2007
Roman Hans (Brooklyn, NY)
12 out of 12 found this review helpful

After my mother passed away and I was named executor, I discovered something: California's probate system is a massive, elaborate joke designed to make lawyers rich. It's incomprehensible how convoluted the process is, and how absolutely ZERO help is available. (The court clerks I turned to answered every question with this: "I can't tell you! I'm not a judge!" And, of course, it's not like you can contact a judge.) Imagine trying to file the tax returns for Microsoft without any training or instructions: that's just a hint of what you're in for here.

Armed with this book, though, I got through the process. And -- against all odds, and despite the ridiculous restrictions and obfuscations this laughable legal system imposes on people WHOSE PARENTS JUST DIED -- I got all the way through probate, saving something like $10,000 in legal fees.

So, if your estate doesn't have much money -- or the legal system just bugs the heck out of you, and you refuse to fling hard-earned money at those charlatans -- get this book and thank your lucky stars it exists.


A Wonderful book all the way!   September 15, 1999
9 out of 9 found this review helpful

Julia Nissley's book has held my hand for a year! Even though it does not claim to be of assistance in complicated estates, it has been my sole helper throughout distributing my husband's. I can't tell you what a feeling of satisfaction it has brought me to be able to save thousands of dollars for his heirs, wade through the complex legal establishment, and carry out his wishes personally, rather than delegate it to a stranger. I would not have had the confidence to do so without the clear, step by step and good-humored instructions in this book. What a service! Having this physical process in my hands has complemented the emotional and spiritual aspects of letting go of someone I love; it has given me a great sense of wholeness and completion. Thank you!