Los Angeles County’s probate court runs almost entirely through three online systems: Public Access Online Services for case records, mandatory eFiling for attorneys, and Probate Notes for tracking a case before its hearing. Knowing how each one actually works saves a wasted trip to the Stanley Mosk Courthouse.
Quick Answer: How Do I Use the LA Probate Court’s Online Services?
Case records and document searches go through Public Access Online Services (PAOS), searchable by party name for documents filed since January 1, 2001. Attorneys are required to eFile probate documents through an approved Electronic Filing Service Provider (EFSP); self-represented parties can choose to eFile or file in person. Probate Notes, which show what an examiner needs before your hearing, typically post online 5 to 7 business days ahead of the hearing date.
Searching Case Records: Public Access Online Services
Public Access Online Services (PAOS) is the Los Angeles Superior Court’s public case search tool, covering probate documents filed since January 1, 2001. You can search by litigant name, and results return case types, filing dates, filing locations, and the number of imaged documents available for a case. Viewing document images requires either a registered account or a guest account, both tied to a valid credit or debit card (the court does not accept American Express), and downloading a document carries a per-page fee.
eFiling Requirements, Exceptions, and Costs
Attorneys handling probate cases are required to eFile through an approved EFSP, the court doesn’t accept filings directly or by fax from mandated filers. A handful of document types are exempt even for attorneys, those still have to be submitted in person or by mail to the Probate Division clerk’s office between 8:30am and 4:30pm. Self-represented litigants are never required to eFile, though they can if they prefer.
| Filer Type | eFiling Requirement |
|---|---|
| Attorney (represented party) | Mandatory, through an approved Electronic Filing Service Provider |
| Self-represented party | Optional, may file in person instead |
| Original wills and codicils | In person or by mail only, even for attorneys |
| Letters, bond and undertaking documents | In person or by mail only, even for attorneys |
| Trial exhibits | In person or by mail only, even for attorneys |
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Court eFiling fee | $2.25 per envelope, regardless of document count |
| EFSP service fee | Set separately by your chosen Electronic Filing Service Provider |
| Will-lodging fee | $50, waived if submitted alongside an eFiled petition |
Filings submitted by 11:59pm are treated as filed that same business day, and accepted documents are typically processed within about 24 hours.
Checking Probate Notes Before Your Hearing
A probate examiner reviews every filing before its hearing and posts Probate Notes online, usually 5 to 7 business days beforehand, listing the case name, hearing date, and anything still needed, missing documents, required supplements, or questions for the judicial officer. Addressing a note before the hearing date, rather than finding out about it in the courtroom, is the difference between a routine hearing and a continuance.
Need Funds While Your Los Angeles Probate Case Is Open?
Working through eFiling, court records, and probate notes doesn’t mean waiting to access what’s already yours. A probate advance gives eligible heirs a portion of their expected inheritance now, without waiting for the estate to close.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back do Los Angeles probate case records go online?
Public Access Online Services covers probate documents filed since January 1, 2001. Older cases may require a records request directly from the court.
Do I have to eFile my probate documents in Los Angeles County?
Only if you’re an attorney. Self-represented parties can eFile or file in person, and even attorneys must still deliver certain documents, like original wills, in person or by mail rather than eFiling them.
How much does it cost to eFile a probate document in Los Angeles?
The court charges $2.25 per envelope, on top of separate service fees charged by your chosen Electronic Filing Service Provider. The court does not accept American Express.
When will I see the Probate Notes for my hearing?
Examiners typically post Probate Notes online 5 to 7 business days before the scheduled hearing date, giving you time to fix anything flagged before you’re in front of the judge.
Can I get part of my inheritance while my Los Angeles County case is still in probate?
Yes. A probate advance lets qualifying heirs access a portion of their expected share while the case is still open. See if you qualify for a Los Angeles County probate advance, or check your eligibility with ProbateLend.