You may complete and electronically submit a referral form.  Alternatively, you may print a referral form and email the completed form to PublicAdministrator@ehsd.cccounty.us or fax the completed form to (925) 623-7096.

Email or fax the Public Administrator all relevant documents supporting the referral. Such documents may include: intake or admission forms and/or contact list.

The California Probate Code sets a statutory fee for the personal representative based on the value of the estate. The fee is calculated as follows:

• 4% of the first $100,000
• 3% of the next $100,000
• 2% of the next $800,000
• 1% of the next $9,000,000

The California Probate Code allows the Public Administrator a minimum fee of $3,000.

The California Probate Code also provides for statutory attorney fees based on the same fee schedule as that of the personal representative.

In addition to statutory fees for ordinary services, the court upon request may allow additional fees for extraordinary services (e.g., carrying on the decedent’s business, handling an audit connected with tax liabilities of the estate). These fees are based on the time spent performing the services and the hourly rate of the person performing the services.

The time it takes to complete estate administration varies greatly depending on the complexity of the estate and the availability of the court. The process typically takes at least 12-24 months or longer to complete. Beneficiaries are cautioned not to plan their financial affairs upon the expectation of receiving a distribution of a certain amount at a specific time.

Real property is marketed and sold through licensed real estate agents. All real property is listed in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as part of the marketing process.

The Public Administrator sells personal property through various estate liquidators and auction houses.