The Cost of Probate

If you have not planned for the future, you may be asking, "What is probate?" Probate is the legal process that a person's estates and family enter into after the person passes away. With a solid estate plan, probate will be much simpler and most likely less expensive. However, when a person fails to provide their heirs with a Will or estate plan, their loved ones are forced to make these important decisions with the help of the court.

The cost of probate will always depend upon the size of the estate, but the complexity of the administration or lack of estate plan will play a large role as well. The first fee that a trustee or administrator should be aware of is the attorney fee. According to California Probate Code 10810, a fee that an attorney charges for probate matters is capped. Unfortunately, probate court can order for higher fees when the situation becomes more legally complex. When issues of tax problems and the sale of real estate become involved, the case may take a turn for the more complicated.

Additionally, any probate matter involving an estate valued at more than $100,000 requires the court's intervention. When the court becomes involved, even more fees are added onto the final outcome. It is typical for an estate to incur around $1,000 or more in court costs. Another type of fee for probate includes the appraisal fee for the probate referee.

If you are currently sitting on an unresolved probate matter after the loss of your loved one, immediately bring your case to the law firm of Mortensen & Reinheimer, PC. You will need the experience of an Irvine probate attorney to have your case thoroughly reviewed and evaluated. The firm has years of experience and is admitted to practice law in all California courts. Call today for a free consultation.