Moravec Varga & Mooney Moravec Varga
& Mooney
626-793-3210

Trusted Probate Attorneys — Los Angeles

Los Angeles Probate Lawyer

Probate can feel overwhelming, especially after the loss of a loved one. Moravec Varga & Mooney helps Los Angeles families, executors, administrators, and heirs navigate the probate process with clarity and care.

For more than 35 years, our firm has assisted Los Angeles families with probate filings, court appearances, creditor issues, estate administration, and final distributions.

5-Star Rated — Google, Avvo & Yelp

35+ Years

Probate Experience

1,000+

Cases Resolved

AV-Rated

Martindale-Hubbell

5-Star

Google & Avvo Reviews

The Probate Process

What Happens During Probate?

Probate is a court-supervised process for settling a person's estate after death. While every case is different, most Los Angeles probate matters follow a similar path.

Los Angeles probate court interior
1

Initial Consultation

We review the situation, identify whether probate is required, and explain the likely next steps — including the will, trust documents, death certificate, asset information, and family circumstances.

2

Petition and Court Filing

If probate is needed, we prepare and file the required petition with the probate court — including all required notices to heirs, beneficiaries, and other interested parties.

3

Court Appointment

The court appoints a personal representative — often called an executor or administrator. Once appointed, they receive authority to collect assets, manage estate affairs, and move the case forward.

4

Asset Inventory and Creditor Issues

The estate's assets must be identified, valued, and reported. We help address creditor claims, real property issues, accountings, and other administration requirements.

5

Distribution and Closing

After debts, expenses, taxes, and court requirements are handled, the estate is distributed to the proper heirs or beneficiaries. We prepare the final documents needed to close the probate matter.

How Our Los Angeles Probate Firm Can Help You

Whether you're an executor, administrator, or heir, we provide experienced legal guidance through every stage of the probate process.

Full-Service Probate Administration

From petition filing to final asset distribution — we handle every step, ensuring full compliance with Los Angeles probate procedure.

Court Document Preparation & Filing

We prepare and file all necessary paperwork — accurately and on time — while keeping you informed at every step.

Probate Court Representation

We appear on your behalf in probate court and represent your interests with professionalism and care.

Support for Executors, Administrators & Heirs

We help all parties understand their roles, minimise stress, and avoid costly legal mistakes.

Creditor & Debt Management

We resolve outstanding debts and handle creditor claims to protect estate value and ensure lawful closure.

Complex & Contested Estates

From missing wills to contested estates or multiple heirs — we bring clarity to even the most complicated probate matters.

Los Angeles probate fees and costs

Fees & Court Costs

What Does Probate Cost in Los Angeles?

One of the first questions families ask is how much probate will cost. Probate attorney's fees in Los Angeles are generally set by statute and based on the value of the probate estate.

Probate may also involve court filing fees, publication costs, probate referee fees, certified copies, appraisal expenses, and other case-specific costs. The total depends on the assets involved, whether real property is part of the estate, whether disputes arise, and how much court involvement is required.

During your consultation, we can explain the likely fee structure, what costs may apply, and what to expect before the case moves forward.

Not Sure Where to Start?

If you are responsible for a loved one's estate, you do not have to figure out the probate process alone. We can help you understand whether probate is required, what deadlines may apply, and what steps are needed to move the estate forward.

Why Choose Moravec Varga & Mooney

Family home and estate planning

35+ Years of Probate Experience

Serving Los Angeles County families with trusted probate support since 1990.

AV-Rated by Martindale-Hubbell

Recognised for professional excellence — the highest rating available.

Remote Services Available

E-signature capabilities and remote consultations for your convenience.

1,000+ Cases Resolved

A proven track record guiding families through probate successfully.

Compassionate & Personal

We understand you're going through a difficult time. Approachable, patient, and unpretentious.

Serving All of Los Angeles County

From Beverly Hills to Long Beach, Pasadena to Santa Monica — we're here for you.

What Our Clients Say

"She steered me along the path to completion and I felt 100% confident the whole time. Plus, she has a cool, approachable personality as well. Some attorneys do and some attorneys don't. It matters!"

— Zabrina Horton, Los Angeles

"During the probate process Linda and her team remained who they were from start to finish — professional, communicative, and informative. Our case took about 2 years due to the intricacies involved; they never wavered."

— Adell Forbes, Los Angeles

"Linda explained everything to us in a way that was very easy to understand, and she took the time to answer several questions that members of my family had. Linda's team was also very responsive, professional, and helpful."

— Ian B., Los Angeles

Serving Families Throughout Los Angeles County

Moravec Varga & Mooney assists clients with probate matters throughout Los Angeles County and surrounding communities.

Our Office

Located in San Marino, Serving All of LA County

2233 Huntington Drive, Suite 17, San Marino, CA 91108. Many probate matters can also begin by phone, email, video consultation, and electronic document review.

If you are unsure whether your case belongs in Los Angeles County probate court, we can help you determine the proper next step.

Call 626-793-3210 →

We help families in these areas:

Los Angeles Pasadena San Marino Glendale Burbank Santa Clarita Long Beach Torrance Beverly Hills Santa Monica Encino Downey Whittier Studio City San Fernando Valley Woodland Hills Lancaster

Frequently Asked Questions

California probate law reference materials
What is probate and do I need a lawyer?

Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person's estate — distributing assets, paying debts, and closing accounts. While not always required, most estates with real property in Los Angeles go through probate. An experienced probate attorney ensures the process is handled correctly and efficiently.

How long does probate take in Los Angeles?

A straightforward probate case in Los Angeles typically takes 9 to 18 months. More complex cases involving contested wills, multiple properties, or creditor disputes can take longer. We work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible.

How much does a probate lawyer cost?

Probate attorney fees in Los Angeles are set by statute based on the value of the estate. We'll explain the fee structure clearly during your free consultation so there are no surprises.

Do I need probate if there is a will?

A will does not necessarily avoid probate. If assets are titled in the deceased person's name alone and do not pass by beneficiary designation, trust, or another transfer method, probate may still be required.

Can probate be handled without going to court?

Some smaller estates may qualify for simplified procedures, but many estates with real property or higher-value assets require court-supervised probate. We can help determine which process applies.

What if family members disagree?

Probate can become more complicated when heirs disagree, a will is challenged, or questions arise about the executor's conduct. Our firm helps clients address contested probate issues and move the matter toward resolution.

What assets are subject to probate?

Assets held in the deceased person's name alone may be subject to probate unless they pass through a trust, beneficiary designation, joint ownership arrangement, or another transfer method. Common probate assets may include real property, bank accounts, investment accounts, business interests, and personal property.

Can real property be sold during probate?

Real property may be sold during probate, but the process depends on the authority granted to the personal representative and whether court confirmation is required. We can help determine what approvals are needed before a sale moves forward.

What if the will is being contested?

We have extensive experience with contested estates. Whether there's a dispute over the validity of a will, disagreements between heirs, or concerns about executor conduct, we represent your interests and work toward a fair resolution.

Can you help if there is no will?

Yes. When someone dies without a will (intestate), state law determines how assets are distributed. We guide you through the intestate probate process, helping identify heirs and manage the estate according to state law.

Speak with a Los Angeles probate attorney

Speak With a Los Angeles Probate Attorney

Whether you are an executor, administrator, heir, or family member trying to understand what comes next, Moravec Varga & Mooney can help guide you through the probate process.

Call us directly

626-793-3210

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2233 Huntington Drive, Suite 17, San Marino, CA

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AV-Rated — California State Bar Member
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