Highest real estate values in the US — even modest SF homes can push estates into formal probate. Tech industry wealth creates complex stock option, RSU, and startup equity estate matters.
| Case Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small estate affidavit (under $184,500) | 30–90 days | No court filing required |
| Formal testate administration | 9–12 months | Creditor notice; inventory; accounting |
| Complex administration (tech equity) | 12–24 months | Stock options; RSUs; startup equity valuation |
| Contested estate | 24–60+ months | Full civil discovery; possible jury |
| Conservatorship (establishment) | 3–6 months | Investigator report; hearing; annual reports |
| Estate Value | Attorney Fees | Executor Fees | Total Est. Cost | % of Estate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $500,000 | $13,000 (statutory) | $13,000 (statutory) | $30,000–$55,000+ | 6.0%–11.0% |
| $2,000,000 | $33,000 (statutory) | $33,000 (statutory) | $70,000–$130,000+ | 3.5%–6.5% |
| $5,000,000 | $73,000 (statutory) | $73,000 (statutory) | $150,000–$300,000+ | 3.0%–6.0% |
* Estimates based on Probate Insider Reference Series 2026. Actual costs vary. Not legal advice.