Find the important documents
Gather any will or trust, death certificates, account statements, deeds, and court notices. Keep originals safe. Whoever holds an original will must deliver it to the superior court clerk within 30 days after learning of the death.
Make a first inventory
List known property, accounts, and debts. Different assets may pass in different ways, so do not assume they all go through probate.
Record the contacts
Note the people named in the estate documents and any professionals already involved, such as an accountant or financial adviser.
Use the official guide
The California Courts guide explains the ways property can be transferred after a death. The right process depends on the estate.
This guide is a general checklist, not legal advice. It may not list every document or step that matters in your situation.
Official resource: California Courts: property after someone dies