Van Nuys Estate Planning Attorney

Van Nuys probate fees typically consume $40,000–$42,000 on a median home, cutting deeply into family inheritances via California's statutory formula.

Van Nuys Housing Snapshot

Median sale prices average $825,000 in early 2026, blending airport-adjacent starter homes (1,500–2,200 sq ft, 3 beds) with updated ranches near the 405/101 interchange. This dense Valley hub (pop. ~130,000, median age 36, incomes ~$70,000, 60% Hispanic) offers Lake Balboa access, Van Nuys High (7/10 GreatSchools), and industrial job proximity—real estate often 70%+ of estates.​

California's Tiered Probate Fees Explained

Probate Code §10810 mandates identical fees for attorney and executor on gross value (debts ignored)—double the tiers.

Court ($435+), referee (0.1%), bonds add 1–2%.​

Total Fees for Van Nuys Median Home ($825K Estate)

• First $100K: $8,000 total

• Next $100K: $6,000 total

• Next $625K: $25,000 total

Statutory Total: $39,000. Plus extras (~$2,000–$3,000), $41,000–$42,000 (~5% of estate).

Why Van Nuys Families Get Hit Hardest

Estates layer homes, rentals near Van Nuys Airport, and pensions in high-density quake/flood zones where probate's 12–18 months expose assets publicly and delay sales.​

Estate Planning Option

A revocable living trust eliminates these fees with private transfers. Robert K. Lee, San Fernando Valley estate planning and bankruptcy attorney, assists local families.