How to File Probate in San Bernardino County
Last Updated: August 28, 2026
In this Guide:
An Introduction to Filing Probate in San Bernardino County
Filing probate in San Bernardino County requires close attention to local court rules and procedures. Because this county serves a large geographic area, probate cases may move more slowly than families expect. Understanding local procedures can help you avoid delays, rejected filings, and continued hearings.
Probate in San Bernardino County follows California law, but local practices still matter. The Superior Court uses probate examiners, filing requirements, and courthouse assignments that can affect your case. If key details are missed, the court may issue probate notes or continue the hearing.
This guide explains how probate works in San Bernardino County, where to file, how examiner notes work, expected timelines, and what the court expects.
For statewide guidance, see our California Probate by County guide.
Probate Court in San Bernardino County
The Superior Court of California, County of San Bernardino handles all probate matters in the county.
San Bernardino County is one of the largest counties in California by geography. Because of this size, probate cases are assigned to specific courthouses based on case type.
Probate examiners review filings before hearings. They issue written notes when documents are missing or incorrect. Addressing examiner notes on time is critical in this county.
San Bernardino Probate Court – Quick Facts
Addresses:
Fontana District, 17780 Arrow Boulevard, Fontana, CA 92335
Victorville District 14455 Civic Drive, Victorville, CA 92392
Business Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Probate Clerk Phone: (909) 521-3388
Probate Court Website: Click to view
Where to File Probate in San Bernardino County
The Probate Department handles decedents’ estates, trusts, and conservatorships. Probate matters are generally filed and heard in the Fontana and Victorville Districts. Knowing where to file probate in San Bernardino County is important because hearing assignments may vary after filing.
The Needles District handles limited probate matters only. These may include Affidavits Re Real Property of Small Value, guardianships, and petitions to determine succession to real property.
Guardianship and conservatorship matters may be handled at other locations. Always confirm the assigned courthouse listed on your case notice.
San Bernardino County also requires careful compliance with filing format and fee rules.
San Bernardino Probate Filing – Key Facts
Filing Method: E-filing, in person, or by mail
Approved E-Filing Providers
Helpful Court Links
Probate e-Filing Instructions: View instructions
Probate Fee Schedule: View PDF
How to Look Up a Probate Case in San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County provides public online access to probate case information.
You can usually search by:
- Case number
- Party name
- Filing date
The system may show case status, hearing dates, and filed documents. Probate examiner notes may post separately and do not always generate email alerts.
Case Search Portal: Access CAP
Local Probate Rules in San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County follows statewide probate rules plus local requirements. Common local expectations include:
- Correct caption formatting
- Required attachments filed together
- Accurate hearing department references
- Timely service proof
Failure to follow local rules often results in probate notes. Always review the court’s Local Rules before filing or supplementing documents.
Download Local Rules of Court (probate): Click to download
Probate Notice Publication in San Bernardino County
Publication is part of the probate timeline in San Bernardino County. San Bernardino County requires publication in an adjudicated newspaper. The paper must be approved for probate notices in this county. View a list of current newspapers of general circulation in San Bernardino County,
Key rules include:
- Publication once a week for three consecutive weeks
- Correct courthouse and hearing information
- Proof of publication filed before the hearing
Costs vary by newspaper and city. Filing the wrong publication proof will delay your case.
Probate Examiner Notes San Bernardino County
Probate examiners review filings before the hearing date. They issue written notes identifying missing items, corrections, or filing problems. Notes are typically available through the Court Access Portal.
In San Bernardino County:
- Notes often post online before the hearing
- Problems must usually be corrected before the case can move forward
- Late responses may result in a continued hearing
Responding quickly and completely can help avoid delays.
San Bernardino Probate Examiner Notes – Quick Facts
Examiner Notes Page: Access the Court Access Portal
Timing: Notes are often available about two weeks before the scheduled hearing and may remain available for a short time after the hearing.
Important Tip: For instructions on how to access probate notes, view the court guide. Access may be limited, so save or print your notes once available.
If the court issues probate examiner notes, the case may not proceed until the issues are addressed. For a clear explanation of probate notes, supplements, and filing corrections, see Probate Notes and Supplements in California.
Probate Referees in San Bernardino County
After appointment, the court assigns a probate referee. Referees value non-cash estate assets.
Assignments follow case number ranges set by the State Controller. You must contact the assigned referee promptly. Delays in inventory and appraisal can stall the entire case.
Currently the following individuals are in the probate referee pool for San Bernardino County. You should confirm current information through the State Controller’s website.
Elfmont, Daniel, 306 W. 2nd Street, #200, San Bernardino, CA 92401, phone (909) 383-1441, email delfmontprobatereferee@gmail.com
Garvin, Burdette “Bud” M., 306 W. 2nd Street, Suite 200, San Bernardino, CA 92401, phone (909) 885-7410, email garvinreferee@aol.com
Moya, Jacki, 306 W. 2nd Street, #200, San Bernardino, CA 92401, phone (909) 885-5194, email Jacki.probateref@gmail.com
Sand, Brad, 980 W. 6th St., Ontario, CA 91762, phone (909) 206-2070, email Brad@SocalProbateReferee.com
Smothers, James, 306 W. 2nd Street, Suite 200, San Bernardino, CA 92401, phone (909) 383-0348, email jimsmothers6@gmail.com
Probate Timeline in San Bernardino County
The probate timeline in San Bernardino County may move more slowly because of filing volume and detailed court review. Probate examiners often review documents carefully before hearings.
To open a probate case, you generally file:
- Petition for Probate (DE-111)
- Original will, if one exists
- Required confidential forms or supplements
- Filing fee
The first appearance fee is usually paid when filing. Incomplete submissions may be rejected by the clerk.
San Bernardino County expects clean, properly bookmarked electronic filings.
Typical timeline:
- File the petition
- Publish notice
- Receive examiner notes
- Attend the hearing
- Complete the inventory and appraisal
- Pay approved debts and taxes
- Distribute assets and close the estate
Missing a step or filing incomplete documents often causes delays.
How Probate & More Provides Affordable Probate Help Without Attorney Fees for San Bernardino County Probate
Probate & More helps families prepare and file probate documents correctly while avoiding unnecessary delays.
We provide:
- Flat-fee probate document preparation
- Help with e-filing and publication requirements
- Examiner note review and correction support
- Probate referee coordination
- Support for self-represented families throughout the process
Our team brings 50+ years of combined experience. We serve clients statewide with affordable, non-attorney support focused on California probate court requirements.
Call 916-243-0311 to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Bernardino County Probate
Q. Does San Bernardino County require e-filing for probate?
A. Yes. Probate filings are generally submitted electronically, though filing options can change. Always confirm current court requirements before filing.
Q. Where do I file a probate case in San Bernardino County?
A. Probate matters are generally handled in the Fontana and Victorville Districts, depending on the case type and court assignment. Always review your notice or confirm filing location with the court.
Q. How do I see probate examiner notes?
A. Check the court’s online case access system regularly. Examiner notes may post before the hearing and updates are not always sent by email.
Q. Do I need a probate referee?
A. If the estate includes non-cash assets, a probate referee is commonly assigned to value those assets.
Q. Can Probate & More help if I already filed?
A. Yes. We help correct filings, respond to examiner notes, and support cases that are already in progress.
Start Your Probate Filing in San Bernardino County
Probate in San Bernardino County requires careful attention to filing rules, examiner notes, deadlines, and courthouse assignments. Because probate matters are generally handled in the Fontana and Victorville Districts, filing in the proper location is important.
Many delays happen when required steps are missed or documents are filed incorrectly. Understanding local procedures can help keep your case moving forward.
If you want support without high attorney fees, Probate & More can help. Our experienced team prepares probate documents, assists with e-filing, and helps clear examiner notes.
Call 916-243-0311 to speak with our team and take the next step with confidence.
Smart. Simple. Affordable. Legal Help Without the Lawyers.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
We are a California Registered Legal Document Assistant (LDA). We prepare legal documents — we do not practice law.
For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult a licensed California probate attorney.
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