California Probate Cost Calculator
In California, the fees paid to the attorney and the executor in a probate are set by statute and based on the gross value of the estate. Enter an estate value to see what the statutory fees could be.
Include only assets that would go through probate. Assets that usually pass outside probate include those held in a funded trust, property held in joint tenancy, and accounts or insurance policies with a named beneficiary. This tool is an educational illustration.
Fees are fixed by law, and they add up.
California Probate Code section 10810 sets the attorney’s fee for ordinary services as a percentage of the estate, and section 10800 allows the executor or administrator the same amount. Both are calculated on the gross value of the probate estate: the value of the assets before subtracting any mortgage or other debt. A home worth $1,000,000 with a $700,000 mortgage is still counted at $1,000,000.
| Portion of estate | Rate (each) |
|---|---|
| First $100,000 | 4% |
| Next $100,000 | 3% |
| Next $800,000 | 2% |
| Next $9,000,000 | 1% |
| Next $15,000,000 | 0.5% |
| Above $25,000,000 | Reasonable amount set by the court |
The court can also award “extraordinary” fees for work such as selling real estate, handling litigation, or preparing tax returns, and the process typically takes nine months to a year and a half or longer. Assets that are properly transferred to a revocable living trust generally do not go through probate, so these fees generally do not apply to them. Some assets or disputes may still require court involvement.
Explore Ways to Reduce Probate CostsThis calculator provides general estimates based on the California statutory fee schedule and typical court costs, which can vary by county. It is not legal advice, does not account for every cost that may arise, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Cho Law Firm, APC does not handle probate matters; we help families plan to reduce the need for probate and guide successor trustees through trust administration. Statutes: Probate Code section 10800 and section 10810. Estimate assumptions reviewed September 2026.
Plan ahead to reduce what probate could cost your family.
Assets that are properly transferred to a living trust generally avoid probate. Schedule a consultation with Julie to find out what a plan would look like for your family.
(949) 436-9090Consultation fees: online, $150 for 30 minutes or $300 for 1 hour; in person, $400 for 1 hour; trust review, $550 for 1 hour. You choose a time and pay when you book. If you then hire the firm, the consultation fee is credited toward your legal fees.