COMPASSIONATE GUIDANCE THROUGH COMPLEX TIMES
Probate Attorney in Orange County, CA
Navigating probate in Orange County can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Pevney helps families across Orange County resolve probate matters with clarity, compassion, and efficiency.
Michael Pevney, a Probate Attorney in Orange County
Why Probate Is Important in California
Probate is the legal process of settling a loved one’s estate after they pass away. In California, it often involves validating a will, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to heirs. Without proper guidance, families may face delays, high costs, and unnecessary stress.
- Save up to $50,000 in probate costs
- Avoid 18 months of court delays
- Protect your family’s future with peace of mind
Get a Clear Estimate of Probate Fees in California
How Probate Costs Are Calculated
- Attorney’s Fees – Set by California’s statutory fee schedule
- Executor’s Fees – Generally match the attorney’s statutory fees
- Court & Filing Fees – $435–$500+ depending on county
- Other Costs – Publication, appraisals, bond fees, certified copies, etc.
Understand how probate costs are calculated so you can make informed decisions about your estate plan.
Try the Calculator
Enter the estimated value of the estate, and our calculator will show you the approximate statutory fees and other likely expenses.
Sample Probate Fees in California
Here’s what statutory attorneys and executor fees look like for different estate values.
- $500,000 estate → $26,000
- $1,000,000 estate → $46,000
- $2,000,000 estate → $66,000
Statutory fees are based on the gross probate estate value (not reduced by mortgages or debts). The attorney and the personal representative each receive the same scheduled fee. Cal. Prob. Code §§ 10800 & 10810
+ Add other common costs (optional)
A Clear, Step-by-Step Probate Process
Michael Pevney guides families through probate with a proven process designed to reduce stress and confusion.
Free Consultation
Understand your unique situation and next steps.
Case Review & Filing
Prepare and file documents with Orange County Probate Court.
Asset & Debt Management
Identify assets, settle debts, and communicate with creditors.
Court Appearances
Represent you in required hearings with professionalism.
Final Distribution
Transfer property and assets to rightful heirs.
Get a Clear Estimate of Probate Fees in California
Probate is the legal process of settling a loved one’s estate after they pass away. In California, it often involves validating a will, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to heirs. Without proper guidance, families may face delays, high costs, and unnecessary stress.
Assets exceed California’s small estate threshold
There is no living trust in place
Multiple heirs or family disputes exist
The estate includes real estate in California
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Probate Questions for Orange County Families
Probate can feel complicated, especially during a difficult time. To make the process easier to understand, here are answers to common probate questions in California, including how it works, what documents are needed, and how it may affect your family.
How long does probate take in California?
Probate usually takes nine to eighteen months. Complex or contested cases can take even longer.
How are probate attorney fees calculated?
California Probate Code sections 10800 and 10810 set statutory fees based on the gross estate value. For example, a one million dollar estate may result in more than forty six thousand dollars in combined attorney and executor fees.
Can probate be avoided in Orange County?
Yes. The most effective way is to create and fund a living trust. This allows assets to pass directly to beneficiaries without court involvement.
What assets must go through probate?
Assets held only in your name without a beneficiary designation, such as real estate or bank accounts, must go through probate. Assets in a living trust, joint accounts, or accounts with named beneficiaries usually avoid probate.
SECURE YOUR LEGACY
Start Planning for Your Family’s Future Today
With over 18 years of legal experience in Orange County, Michael Pevney focuses on estate planning to help families protect assets, avoid probate, and secure their legacy with confidence.