Why Hire a Probate Attorney in Los Angeles County? What I Do For Families During Their Most Difficult Time

BOTTOM LINE: A Los Angeles County probate attorney handles all court filings, deadlines, creditor notifications, and asset distribution — protecting you from personal liability while you focus on your family. With 25+ years of experience at Stanley Mosk Courthouse, I guide executors and families through every step of California probate. Call (818) 291-6217 for a free consultation.

When someone you love dies, the last thing you want to deal with is paperwork, court filings, and legal deadlines. But if they owned property in California — a home, bank accounts, investments — someone has to navigate the probate process.

That "someone" is often a grieving family member who has never set foot in a courthouse.

I'm Rozsa Gyene, a Los Angeles County probate attorney with over 25 years of experience. I've guided hundreds of families through California probate — and I've seen what happens when people try to do it alone.

This article explains exactly what a probate attorney does, why it matters, and how I help families through this difficult time.

What Does a Probate Attorney Actually Do?

A probate attorney handles the legal process of transferring a deceased person's assets to their heirs. In California, this involves court filings, strict deadlines, creditor notifications, tax returns, and formal accountings.

Here's what I do for my clients:

File the Probate Petition

The probate process begins with a Petition for Probate filed at Stanley Mosk Courthouse in downtown Los Angeles. This isn't a simple form — it requires accurate information about the deceased person's assets, heirs, beneficiaries, and the proposed executor. I prepare and file this petition correctly the first time, avoiding delays from rejected filings.

Handle All Court Appearances

Los Angeles County probate requires multiple court hearings. I attend every hearing on your behalf, present the case to the judge, and handle any issues that arise. You don't need to take time off work or navigate the downtown LA courthouse yourself.

Notify Creditors and Handle Claims

California law requires formal notification to creditors. I publish the required legal notices, send direct notifications to known creditors, review all claims filed against the estate, and advise you on which claims to pay, reject, or negotiate.

Prepare the Inventory and Appraisal

Within 120 days of appointment, the executor must file a complete inventory of all estate assets with court-approved appraisals. I coordinate with the probate referee, ensure accurate valuations, and file the required paperwork on time.

Manage Estate Administration

During the 12-18 month probate process, I help you:

• Manage estate assets
• Pay bills and expenses
• File required tax returns
• Sell real estate if necessary
• Keep detailed records of all transactions

Prepare Final Accounting and Distribution

At the end of probate, I prepare a detailed final accounting showing every dollar that came in and went out. I file the Petition for Final Distribution, obtain court approval, and guide you through distributing assets to beneficiaries.

Why Can't I Just Do Probate Myself?

Technically, you can represent yourself in California probate. But here's what I've seen happen when people try:

Rejected Filings and Delays

California probate forms are complex, and Los Angeles County has specific local rules. A single error can get your petition rejected, adding weeks or months to the process. I've seen cases delayed six months or more because of filing mistakes.

Missed Deadlines

Probate has strict deadlines:

• 30 days to lodge the will
• 120 days for inventory
• 4 months for creditor claims

Miss a deadline, and you may face court sanctions, personal liability, or have to start over.

Personal Liability

This is the big one. Executors have a fiduciary duty to the estate and beneficiaries. If you make a mistake — pay the wrong creditor, distribute assets too early, miss a tax filing — you can be held personally liable. I've seen executors sued for tens of thousands of dollars for honest mistakes.

Family Conflicts

When family members disagree about the estate, things can get ugly fast. Having an attorney as a neutral third party helps keep everyone focused on the legal process rather than old family grievances.

Why Choose Me as Your Los Angeles Probate Attorney?

25+ Years of California Probate Experience

I've been practicing California estate and probate law since 1999. I've handled hundreds of probate cases at Stanley Mosk Courthouse and throughout Los Angeles County. I know the judges, I know the procedures, and I know how to move cases efficiently through the system.

I Handle Everything

When you hire me, I take the legal burden off your shoulders. You don't have to figure out which forms to file, when to file them, or what to say in court. I handle all of it while keeping you informed every step of the way.

Local Glendale Office, County-Wide Service

My office is conveniently located at 450 N Brand Blvd in Glendale, but I serve clients throughout Los Angeles County. Whether your loved one lived in Pasadena, Burbank, Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, or anywhere else in the county, I can help.

Compassionate, Personal Service

I understand you're going through one of the most difficult times in your life. I treat every client with compassion and respect. When you call my office, you talk to real people who care about helping you through this process.

How I Work With Clients

1. Free Initial Consultation

We'll discuss your situation, review any documents you have, and I'll explain your options. No obligation, no pressure.

2. Clear Fee Agreement

California sets statutory probate fees by law based on estate value. I'll explain exactly what to expect — no surprises.

3. I Handle the Legal Work

I prepare all documents, make all court appearances, and manage all deadlines. You focus on your family.

4. Regular Updates

You'll always know what's happening with your case. I'm available by phone and email to answer questions.

5. Final Distribution

When probate is complete, I guide you through distributing assets and closing the estate properly.

Common Questions About Hiring a Probate Attorney

How much does a probate attorney cost in Los Angeles County?

California law sets statutory fees for probate attorneys based on the estate's gross value. For a $500,000 estate, the statutory attorney fee is $13,000. For a $1,000,000 estate, it's $23,000. These fees are paid from the estate, not out of your pocket.

Do I really need an attorney for probate?

While you can legally represent yourself, California probate is complex with strict deadlines and significant personal liability risks. Most executors find that hiring an attorney provides peace of mind and protects them from costly mistakes.

What if the estate has no will?

I handle both testate (with a will) and intestate (without a will) probate cases. When there's no will, California's intestate succession laws determine who inherits. The process is similar, but the court appoints an administrator rather than an executor.

How long does probate take in Los Angeles County?

Most Los Angeles County probate cases take 12-18 months from start to finish. Complex estates with litigation, tax issues, or real estate sales can take 2-3 years or longer.

What if beneficiaries are fighting?

Family disputes are unfortunately common in probate. As your attorney, I act as a neutral third party focused on following the law and the decedent's wishes. When necessary, I can mediate disputes or represent you in probate litigation.

Can you help if probate has already been filed?

Yes. I can take over cases that are already in progress if you're having difficulties with the process or your current attorney. I've helped many clients get probate cases back on track.

What Los Angeles County Families Are Saying

"Rozsa made an incredibly difficult time so much easier. She handled everything with the court while I focused on my family. I couldn't have done this without her." — Maria T., Pasadena

"Professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate. Rozsa guided us through every step of probate and made sure we understood what was happening." — David L., Glendale

"After my father passed away, I was overwhelmed by the probate process. Rozsa took care of everything and kept me informed throughout. Highly recommend." — Jennifer K., Burbank

Areas I Serve in Los Angeles County

I represent clients throughout Los Angeles County, including:

• Glendale
• Burbank
• Pasadena
• Los Angeles
• Santa Clarita
• San Fernando Valley
• Alhambra
• Arcadia
• La Cañada Flintridge
• Montrose
• La Crescenta
• And all other Los Angeles County communities

All probate cases are filed at Stanley Mosk Courthouse in downtown Los Angeles (111 N Hill Street), and I'm familiar with all the judges, staff, and procedures there.

Beyond Probate: How I Can Help Your Family

While I focus on probate administration, I also help families with:

Estate Planning: Create a living trust to avoid probate entirely. Our living trust packages start at just $575 (single) / $675 (married couples).

Trust Administration: If your loved one had a trust, I guide successor trustees through the administration process without court involvement.

Trust Litigation: When trustees aren't fulfilling their duties or beneficiaries' rights are being violated, I represent clients in trust disputes.

Conservatorships: Help elderly or incapacitated family members by establishing legal conservatorships.

Ready to Get Started?

If you're facing California probate in Los Angeles County, I'm here to help. With over 25 years of experience, I know how to guide families through this process efficiently and compassionately.

Schedule your free consultation today.

Contact Information

Rozsa Gyene, Esq. California State Bar No. 208356

Phone: (818) 291-6217

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

Email: Available through our contact form

Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Free Consultation

During your free consultation, we'll:

• Review your loved one's estate and assets
• Explain the probate process step-by-step
• Discuss timeline and costs
• Answer all your questions
• Determine if you need an attorney or if there are simpler options

Call (818) 291-6217 or schedule online to get started.

Why Wait? Get the Help You Need Today

Probate doesn't get easier the longer you wait. Court deadlines don't pause for grief. The sooner you get professional help, the sooner you can complete the process and move forward.

I've spent 25+ years helping Los Angeles County families through probate. Let me help your family too.

Call (818) 291-6217 for your free consultation.

---

About the Author

Rozsa Gyene (State Bar No. 208356) is a California probate and estate planning attorney serving Los Angeles County since 1999. With extensive experience at Stanley Mosk Courthouse and throughout LA County, Rozsa provides compassionate, professional guidance to executors and families navigating the California probate process.

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

Phone: (818) 291-6217

---

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about California probate and legal services. It should not be construed as legal advice. Every case is different, and you should consult with a qualified California probate attorney about your specific situation. Attorney advertising.