 How much does probate cost? |
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The cost of probate depends on the size of the estate and the services are rendered. Court costs are usually several thousand dollars depending on the size of the estate. Professional fees are awardable to both the personal representative and her legal counsel. These parties can be awarded both statutory fees and extraordinary fees. The statutory fees are levied upon the gross value of the probate estate and are determined by the schedule found in Probate Code § 10810. An example is as follows:
| |
Administrator |
Attorney |
Total |
| $100,000 estate: |
$4,000 |
$4,000 |
$8,000 |
| $500,000 estate: |
$13,000 |
$13,000 |
$26,000 |
| $1,000,000 estate: |
$23,000 |
$23,000 |
$46,000 |
The probate court also has discretion to award extraordinary fees for services of the personal representative and her attorney. Extraordinary fees are usually calculated on an hourly basis for special services provided to the estate, such as participating in litigation over disputed claims or selling real property. |
What estate planning documents did the loved one have?
Do I need to file a probate?