California Probate Administration 2025: A Guide to the Stanley Mosk & Pasadena Courts

Navigating the Los Angeles Probate Backlog

If you have recently lost a loved one in Glendale, Burbank, or Pasadena, you are likely dealing with the Stanley Mosk Courthouse or the Pasadena Probate Department. As a probate attorney in Glendale with over 25 years of experience, I've seen how the 2025 court delays can freeze a family's assets.

Whether you are seeking Letters of Administration because there was no will, or you are an Executor named in a testament, this guide explains how to protect the estate's value from statutory fees and court delays.

How Much Does Probate Cost in California? (2025 Statutory Fees)

California is unique because attorney and executor fees are set by California Probate Code §10800. These fees are calculated on the gross value of the estate, meaning mortgages and debts are not subtracted before the percentage is applied.

The Statutory Fee Schedule

The attorney and the executor are each entitled to:

• 4% of the first $100,000
• 3% of the next $100,000
• 2% of the next $800,000
• 1% of the next $9,000,000

For a standard $1,000,000 Glendale home, the combined statutory fees for the attorney and executor total $46,000.

California Probate Fee Calculator 2025

The 7-Step Probate Administration Roadmap

To settle an estate in Los Angeles County, you must follow a strict procedural timeline. Missing a single filing can add six months to your case.

1. Filing the Petition (DE-111): Lodging the will and requesting the appointment of a Personal Representative.
2. Notice of Petition: Publishing notice in the Glendale Independent or Burbank Leader to alert creditors.
3. Issuance of Letters: Obtaining Letters Testamentary from the judge to gain access to bank accounts.
4. Inventory & Appraisal: Submitting assets to a court-appointed Probate Referee to determine fair market value.
5. Creditor Claims Period: A mandatory 4-month window for debts to be filed.
6. Final Accounting: A detailed report of every dollar spent and earned by the estate.
7. Order of Distribution: The judge signs the order to transfer titles to the heirs.

The "Big Money" Shortcut: The IAEA

The most important term an Executor should know in 2025 is the Independent Administration of Estates Act (IAEA). When we petition for "Full Authority" under the IAEA, we can often sell real estate in Magnolia Park or the Rancho District without waiting for a court confirmation hearing. This allows you to close escrow in 30 days rather than 6 months.

Learn more about executor authority to sell property and how the IAEA can expedite your case.

New 2025 Probate Limits (AB 2016)

As of April 1, 2025, California has updated the thresholds for simplified procedures:

• Small Estate Affidavit: Now $208,850 for personal property.
• Primary Residence Limit: Under AB 2016, primary residences valued up to $750,000 may qualify for a simplified transfer, though most homes in the San Fernando Valley still exceed this limit and require full probate.

How to Avoid Probate: The $575 Solution

While probate is a vital service, it is a "voluntary" tax. By establishing an affordable $575 living trust package, you ensure your family skips the Stanley Mosk Courthouse entirely.

Living Trust vs. Probate Comparison

Next Steps: Request Your Probate Assessment

If you are currently holding a death certificate and aren't sure where to start, download our 2025 Executor's Checklist: The First 48 Hours.

Ready to start? Schedule a consultation to discuss your case at our Glendale office on Brand Blvd. We specialize in helping families navigate the Los Angeles Superior Court with speed and transparency.

Call (818) 291-6217 or Contact Us Online.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does probate cost in California in 2025?

In 2025, California probate costs are statutory, meaning they are set by Probate Code §10800. For both the attorney and executor, the fee is 4% of the first $100k, 3% of the next $100k, and 2% of the next $800k. A typical $1,000,000 estate will pay $46,000 in combined statutory fees plus court costs.

What is the new California probate limit for 2025?

As of April 1, 2025, the threshold for a Small Estate Affidavit is $208,850. Additionally, Assembly Bill 2016 (AB 2016) allows primary residences valued up to $750,000 to be transferred using a simplified court procedure for deaths occurring on or after April 1, 2025.

How long does probate take in Los Angeles County?

Due to court backlogs at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse, probate in Los Angeles County typically takes 12-18 months. Using the Independent Administration of Estates Act (IAEA) can help expedite the process.

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About the Author

Rozsa Gyene (State Bar No. 208356) is a California estate planning and probate attorney serving Glendale, Burbank, Pasadena, and throughout Los Angeles County. With over 25 years of experience in estate planning, probate administration, and trust litigation, Rozsa provides practical guidance on protecting families from the costs and delays of California probate.

Office Location: 450 N Brand Blvd, Suite 600, Glendale, CA 91203

Phone: (818) 291-6217

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Disclaimer: This article provides general information about California probate law and should not be construed as legal advice. Laws change regularly, and this article reflects information current as of December 2025. Consult with a qualified California probate attorney about your specific circumstances.

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