How Long Does Probate Take in California?
California probate typically takes 8 to 18 months. Here’s what drives the timeline — and why knowing it helps you make the right decisions for your family.
Watch the video, or read the full guide below.
If you have a property going through probate, one of your biggest questions is probably how long the whole process will take.
The typical timeline: 8 to 18 months
In California, probate can take anywhere from about 8 to 18 months. The exact length depends on the court system and how busy it is, whether there are any disputes within the estate, and the overall complexity of the estate itself.
What can stretch it out
Disagreements among heirs, a missing or contested will, hard-to-value assets, or creditor claims can all add time. A straightforward estate with everyone aligned tends to move toward the shorter end of the range.
Knowing the timeline is the most important part of being able to make the right decisions for your family — including whether it makes sense to sell the home during probate rather than waiting for everything to close.
Frequently asked questions
Can the house be sold before probate finishes? +
Often yes — with the right authority from the court, the home can be sold during probate rather than waiting the full 8–18 months.
Why does California probate take so long? +
California courts are heavily backed up, and required notice periods, estate complexity, and any disputes all add time.
This guide is general education, not legal or tax advice. Every estate is different — for specifics, consult your attorney or CPA, or reach out to Anne directly.
Have questions about your situation?
I help families navigate probate and trust real estate across Ventura County and Los Angeles County.