California probate costs are primarily based on the gross value of the estate and are set by statute rather than determined by the executor, administrator, or their attorney. The statutory fee structure is outlined in California Probate Code Section 10810, which establishes compensation for both personal representatives and their attorneys.
In addition to statutory executor/administrator and attorney fees, probate often involves several other expenses, including court filing fees, appraisal and valuation costs, publication fees, and costs associated with managing and maintaining estate assets during administration.
For more complex estates, additional “extraordinary fees” may also be requested by the executor, administrator, or their counsel for services beyond routine administration. These can include tasks such as managing or selling real property, handling business interests, resolving disputes, or addressing tax-related issues.
Ultimately, total probate costs vary widely depending on the size, complexity, and level of conflict involved in the estate.
