Advanced Probate Strategy for Encino's Luxury Assets
Encino real estate south of the boulevard represents massive multi-generational equity. Whether the probate involves a classic estate in Royal Oaks or a contemporary mansion in the Encino Hills, accurate valuation is paramount. In California, probate fees are based on the gross value of the assets. For a $3.5M Encino home, the combined mandatory fees for the attorney and executor total approximately $96,000.
As your Encino probate lawyer, we ensure your family's property receives a 100% Step-up in Basis, which can erase millions in potential capital gains tax. We coordinate with LA County Probate Referees who specialize in high-end San Fernando Valley enclaves to ensure your assets are appraised for maximum tax benefit.
April 2025 AB 2016 Legislative Update
Effective April 1, 2025, California law introduced a $750,000 threshold for primary residences to skip full probate. While many homes in Encino Village or Lake Balboa adjacent areas may approach this limit, most properties in the 91436 zip code—where median sale prices exceed $2.1M—still require formal probate at Stanley Mosk. We utilize these new streamlined procedures for smaller assets or fractional interests, potentially saving heirs a year of court delays.
Stanley Mosk: The Central Hub for Encino Filings
Per the centralized 2025 court rules, all probate petitions for Encino residents are heard at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse (111 N. Hill St, Los Angeles). Navigating this division requires expert technical e-filing capability and a deep understanding of local "Probate Notes" to prevent hearing continuances. We handle all downtown logistics, including court appearances and electronic filings, saving Encino families from the burden of the Civic Center court calendar.
Stanley Mosk Courthouse - Where all Encino probate matters are centralized
Prop 19 Defense: Protecting the Encino Family Home
For heirs inheriting property in the prestigious Royal Oaks or Amestoy Estates enclaves, Proposition 19 remains a primary financial threat. In late 2025, the indexed exclusion cap is $1,044,586 over the taxable base. If an administrator fails to coordinate the child's residency and the exclusion filing with the LA County Assessor within 12 months, an Encino property tax bill could jump from $12,000 to over $50,000 annually. We manage this tax defense concurrently with the probate process.
2025 Encino Probate Statutory Fee Schedule
| Estate Gross Value | Mandatory Attorney Fee | Mandatory Executor Fee |
|---|---|---|
| $1,500,000 | $28,000 | $28,000 |
| $2,500,000 | $38,000 | $38,000 |
| $5,000,000 | $63,000 | $63,000 |
| $10,000,000 | $113,000 | $113,000 |
Eliminating Executor Liability South of Ventura Blvd
Executors of Encino estates are often held to an "Executive Standard" by sophisticated heirs. If you mismanage the probate process—missing a mandatory creditor notice or failing to properly value business interests—you can be held personally liable for the financial loss. Our firm acts as your legal shield, providing attorney-verified accountings and fiduciary oversight to protect your personal assets.
