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Transferring Property Without an Attorney in Los Angeles County

Local court, recorder, and filing details for handling a California estate in Los Angeles County — plus the simplified paths that skip full probate.

Updated June 22, 2026Los Angeles County, CA
Probate court
LA Superior Court — Stanley Mosk Courthouse, 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Recorder
LA County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk — Norwalk, CA
Petition filing fee
$435 (paid to the court)

Which path applies in LA County?

The procedure is the same statewide — what changes locally is where you file or record. Most Los Angeles estates can use one of the simplified transfers below instead of full probate:

  • Small-estate affidavit for accounts and personal property under $239,700
  • Affidavit of Death of Joint Tenant — recorded with the LA County Recorder
  • Spousal Property Petition — filed at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse

Frequently asked

Where do I record a deed-related affidavit in Los Angeles County?
With the LA County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk. The probate petition itself is filed at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse.

Not sure which path is yours?

Answer a few questions about the estate — it takes about 2 minutes.

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