Probate Notes

Probate Examiners, Anne Holsinger and Michelle Warren, may be reached at Probate.Examiner@stanct.org . Telephone calls can be directed to the Probate Unit as set forth above. Emails must have the case identification information and hearing time/date in the subject line. No attachments will be opened. The Probate Examiner can only respond to inquiries regarding the meaning of comments in the notes. Please do not email to notify that documents have been filed, to request a confirmation whether documents have been received, or to request the clearing of notes. No legal or procedural advice may be given by the Probate Examiner in response to your email.

• It is the goal of the Probate Examiner to have Probate Notes posted five (5) calendar days prior to the hearing.
• Defects described in the Probate Notes must be corrected prior to approval of the moving papers. 
• If you are filing documents to cure technical defects, they should be filed NO LATER THAN FIVE COURT DAYS before the hearing.  Later-filed documents might not be reviewed prior to the hearing and could result in a continuance of your case.

Probate Notes will be updated as needed when late-filed documents are reviewed.  Please note:  Late-filed documents that do not contain the hearing date in the caption require more time and effort to be matched to the files.  This may result in an otherwise avoidable continuance.

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Please Note: "Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred)."

This language indicates that no one is required to appear at the hearing.  Probate hearings are open to the public, however, and anyone who wishes to observe a proceeding may do so. Appearances in most cases may be made in person or remotely, by telephone, using VCourt. For more information on how to appear by VCourt, please see the section "Remote Telephonic Hearings" on the home page of this website.
 

POSTED JANUARY 6, 2026
Local Rules of Superior Court of California, County of Stanislaus, revisions effective January 1, 2026, are now available for download.

UPDATED SEPTEMBER 18, 2025; POSTED MARCH 5, 2025
Inventory and Appraisals:  An Inventory and Appraisal must be filed in all decedent's estates, conservatorship, and guardianship matters by a date certain pursuant to statute. If the estate has no assets at all as of the date of the appraisal (e.g., the date of decedent's death, or the date of appointment), an Inventory and Appraisal is still required and failure to file the form even when the estate has no value will very likely result in a required court appearance. For more information, those interested are invited to review the California Probate Referee Guide published by the California Probate Referee's Association, which is available for download online.

If more time is needed to marshal the assets, please see California Probate Code section 8800(b) and (c). Failure to file the Inventory and Appraisal by the statutory deadline, or obtain an extension of time, may result in penalties.

If the Inventory and Appraisal has been submitted to the probate referee but not filed prior to the Inventory Review date, the Personal Representative, or their retained counsel, may file a declaration attesting to these facts and provide an anticipated timeframe for filing.  The Court may, in its discretion, continue the Inventory Review hearing without required appearances.

POSTED JULY 15, 2025
Probate customers may view the documents in the court's files online by accessing the Case Search Portal on the court's website. Access to view confidential documents remains restricted.

POSTED DECEMBER 16, 2024
Please visit the new Probate Examiner's Corner section of the Probate Division webpage where you will find news, reminders, and guides!

POSTED SEPTEMBER 29, 2022, UPDATED 12/02/22

• Please help expand the list of qualified counsel willing to accept appointment in Probate matters, as either court-appointed counsel in Conservatorships pursuant to PrC§1471, Guardians ad litem, successor personal representatives in decedents' estates, and successor trustees. 

• For appointment as counsel in a Conservatorship, please see the list of qualifications and requirements found in California Rule of Court 7.1103 and 7.1105.

• Review forms PR004, PR005, and GC-010 available for download on the Common Forms & Packets page here: https://www.stanislaus.courts.ca.gov/forms-filing/common-forms-packets for more information.  Remit your completed forms to the Superior Court.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2026
Department 23
8:30 a.m.

PR-23-000760 ESTATE OF ETHEL VONNELL MANTARRO, AKA VONNELL MANTARRO
(1)    Order to Show Cause issued 07/17/25 to Lisa Mantarro Moore continued from 10/09/25:
To appear and show cause for failing to appear at the 07/17/25 hearing and failing to file Petition for Final Discharge and Order.

(2)    Discharge Review Hearing continued from 07/17/25, 10/09/25:
Form DE-295, Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order, has been submitted and recommended for approval.
Hearings on 02/05/26 will be vacated.
An appearance will not be required.

Department 22
8:30 a.m.

432815 MATTER OF JEAN SNYDER LIVING TRUST
Account Review Hearing continued from 07/31/25:
Nothing filed since 2023. Prior Note remains:
Eighth Account and Report of Trustee for period beginning 02/01/2023 not on file.
Recommend court issue Order to Show Cause to Trustee to appear and show cause why surcharge should not be imposed, and/or the Trustee removed, for failure to present Account.
Appearance by Trustee, Trustee’s counsel mandatory (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-21-000958 ESTATE OF LINDA ANN WATSON
Account Review Hearing:
PrC§12200 Status has been filed and set for hearing 02/11/26:
Hearing of 02/11/26 will be confirmed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-22-001311 ESTATE OF ROBERT S. VIERRA, JR.
Hearing on Report of Administration; Petition for Final Distribution; for Order on First and Final Account; for Approval of Statutory Personal Representative’s Fees; for Approval of Statutory Attorney’s Fees; for Approval of Costs; for Extraordinary Fees continued from 10/08/25, 10/28/25:
Nothing filed since previous hearing. Prior Notes remain:
• Summary of Account omitted the period covered by the account See PrC§1061(a).
• Schedule of Receipts: payor of rent was omitted.
• Schedule of Loss on Sale: appraisal value and sales price were omitted.
• Schedule D (Titled “Administrative Costs”): 
      o    Payee of “bank fee for paper statement” omitted.
      o    Payee of “property repair” omitted.
      o    Several items are labeled “payment” but do not specify payment for what:
           + Payment to AAA.
           + Payment to Franchise Tax Board for “2021” (are they partial payments for outstanding 2021 income taxes?)
           + Payment for Estate Taxes (is that for preparation of the estate tax return?)
           + Payment to Irrigation Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
• Additional schedule of market value of property on hand at the end of the account period was not included. See PrC§1063(a).
• An Affidavit of mailing was not attached to the Notice of Proposed Action file-marked 10/01/24. See Local Rule 8.100.
• A Declaration “in anticipation of potential probate notes” was filed on 10/01/25, which adds a request not included in the original pleading, to wit: authorization to pay Guardian ad litem’s fees. Please see CRC rule 7.3: only an amended petition or amendment to the petition may modify the petition by adding a request.
      o    The request will have modified the proposed distribution, however that change was not addressed.
      o    New proposed Order will be necessary.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000244 ESTATE OF CHRISTA MARIE GONZALEZ
Hearing on Amended (file marked 01/13/26) First and Final Waiver of Account and Report of Administrator, Petition for Final Distribution and Allowance of Statutory Compensation of Attorney’s Fees continued from 10/21/25: 
Prior defects cured.  
Recommend approval of petition.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 08/20/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000771 ESTATE OF MICHAEL HOWARD WEAVER, AKA MICHAEL H. WEAVER
Account Review Hearing continued from 10/07/25:
A Second PrC§12200 Status Report has been filed and set for hearing 02/26/26.
Hearing of 02/26/26 will be confirmed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000820 ESTATE OF INEZ MUNOZ MAHON
Hearing on Amended (file marked 12/15/25) Waiver of Account and Report of Executor and Petition for Final Distribution continued 11/04/25:
Prior defects cured. 
Recommend approval of petition.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 08/20/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Please review Probate Code section 11641, sections 11750 through 11753, and Judicial Council Form DE-295 Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-24-000954 ESTATE OF JOEY VICTOR DUARTE
Hearing on Amended (file marked 10/20/25) Petition for Probate of Lost Will and for Letters Testamentary continued from 10/08/24, 02/13/25, 06/18/25, 10/21/25:
Waivers of bond [Form DE-142/DE-111(A-3e)] not on file for all intestate heirs. 
Amended petition addressed some defects. Prior notes remain.
•    Form DE-147 Duties and Liabilities not on file.
New note:
•    Attachment 3f(3) omitted one of the requirements of a request to admit a lost will pursuant to PrC§6124; specifically, was the testator competent until death?
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-25-000158 CRUZ FAMILY TRUST U/A/D NOVEMBER 2, 1995
Hearing on Petition to Compel Trustee; to Charge Respondent with Breach of Fiduciary Duty, for Surcharge and Removal (PrC §17200); for Accounting; with Elder or Dependent Adult Financial Abuse (WIC §15610.30 & 15657.5), with Wrongful Taking and for Exemplary Damages and Attorney Fees and Costs (Probate Code §§ 859 and 4231 et seq) (filed by Bethany Cruz) continued from 07/01/25, 10/28/25:
Objection filed 10/02/25 (by Joel Cruz).  
On 10/28/25, the matter was continued to allow time for Objector to serve objection.  Proof of service is on file.
On 10/28/825, the court directed counsel to file a status report prior to the next hearing.  Status Reports are on file.
Prior defects on petition cured. One note remains:
•    Need Order.
New Note:
•    Petitioner requests appointment as successor trustee; therefore it appears necessary that the court set a bond pursuant to PrC§15602(a)(3), however petition did not request a bond nor did it allege the amount of bond that would be appropriate.
Possible long cause.
Hearing required.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000258 ESTATE OF SUSAN I. LEWIS, AKA SUSAN IRENE LEWIS
Inventory Review Hearing continued from 10/30/25:
Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.
A Petition for Final Distribution has been filed and set for hearing 02/10/26.
Hearing of 02/10/26 will be confirmed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000411 ESTATE OF INEZ DEWESE DAVIS
Hearing on Petition for Probate of Will and for Letters Testamentary continued from 05/22/25, 08/12/25, 10/17/25:
Prior Note: Will is not self-proving per Local Rule 8.23.  Proof of Subscribing Witness (Form DE-131) not on file. Petitioner has filed a verified Declaration purs. to PrC§8221 (when no witness is available), however, the Declaration stated only “I believe all three witnesses are now deceased.” (Evidence C § 240). 
The court held a hearing on 10/17/25 and informed counsel that the signatures of one of the witnesses appeared to be the name of an attorney known to practice in this county. 
Petitioner’s counsel has filed a verified Declaration regarding efforts to locate the witnesses to the will. Submitted to court for determination.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000030 ESTATE OF GUILLERMO FLORES VILLARREAL, AKA GUILLERMO VILLARREAL
Hearing on Spousal Property Petition:
If no one appears to object, Recommend approval of Petition.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-23-000207 ESTATE OF FELIX VEGA
Hearing on Second PrC§12200 Status Report of Administration:
Notice appears complete.
Recommend court allow estate to remain open and reset the Account Review Hearing of 04/14/26 to 01/28/27, at which time another Status Report must be filed if the estate is not in a position to be closed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-0000964 ESTATE OF DIANA HERNANDEZ
Hearing on Petition for Final Distribution on Waiver of Account; for Allowance of Statutory Compensation for Personal Representative and for Statutory Fees for Her Attorney:
•    Need itemized list of assets on hand.  Please refer to PC§1062f.  "(f) Itemized list of property on hand, describing each item at its carry value."  Also Local Rule 8.83M. 
•    Body of petition appears not to describe the property on hand for distribution (after statutory compensation) nor the order of specific distribution sought. See CRC 7.651, Local Rule 8.83M.
•    Waivers of Accounting do not bear notary’s acknowledgement (Local Rule 8.69); Waivers must be filed separately and not attached to any pleading (PrC§10954).
•    Need order.
Recommend continuance to 03/20/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001104 ESTATE OF JACK ELDON STEVER, AKA JACK E. STEVER
Hearing on Petition for Settlement of First and Final Account and Final Distribution, Waiver of Accounting, Allowance of Compensation to Executor and Attorney and Allowance of Costs to Attorney:
Recommend approval of petition.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 08/20/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-25-001055 MATTER OF HELEN REYES LIVING TRUST
Hearing on Petition for Order Confirming Real Property as Trust Assets:
If no one appears to object, recommend approval of petition.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000007 ESTATE OF DEBRA LINN BROOKS
Hearing on Petition for Probate of Will and for Letters of Administration with Will Annexed:
•    Affidavit of publication not on file. See Local Rule 8.12.
•    Will is not self-proving per Local Rule 8.23.  Proof of Subscribing Witness (Form DE-131) not on file.
Recommend continuance to 03/27/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 06, 2026

Department 22
8:30 a.m.

PR-23-000279 ESTATE OF THOMAS ALVIN MOON
Hearing on Final Report of Administrator and Petition for its Settlement; For Reimbursement of Costs Advanced to Attorney; for Allowance of Statutory Compensation to Attorney; for Waiver of Statutory Compensation to Administrator; for Final Distribution on Waiver of Account; for Approval of Funds Held in Reserve continued from 10/07/25, 12/05/25: 
Prior Notes have been cured.
Recommend approval of Report and Petition as supplemented.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 08/20/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-001238 ESTATE OF RAYMOND JOHNSON, AKA RAY JOHNSON
Hearing on First and Final Report of Personal Representative on Waiver of Account and Petition for its Settlement, for Allowance of Compensation for Ordinary Services, and for Final Distribution continued from 12/09/25: 
Prior defects cured.
Recommend approval of petition as supplemented.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 08/20/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred) based on the language in the proposed order which states an appearance was made.
 

PR-24-000329 ESTATE OF MARVIN DEWAIN TUFFS, AKA MARVIN D. TUFFS
Hearing on First and Final Account and Report of Executor and Petition for its Settlement, for Allowance of Statutory Compensation to Attorney and Compensation to Attorney for Extraordinary Services, and for Final Distribution continued from 10/07/25, 12/12/25:
Prior Notes have been cured.
By supplement, the personal representative has dropped her request for an alternate distribution and requests distribution of the asset (burial plot) in accordance with the terms of the decedent’s will.
Notice of hearing reflected a hearing time of 9:00 a.m.; recommend court call this matter at 9:00 a.m. rather than 8:30 a.m.
Recommend approval of Account and Petition as supplemented.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 08/20/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 09, 2026
Department 22 
There are no decedent's estates or trusts on calendar
 

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2026

Department 22
8:30 a.m.

PR-21-000883 ESTATE OF FRANCISCO VALENCIA AGUILAR
Account Review Hearing continued from 10/09/25:
A Petition for Final Distribution has been filed and set for hearing 04/01/26.
Hearing of 04/01/26 will be confirmed. 
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-22-000335 ESTATE OF FRANK PAUL HERNANDEZ
Account Review Hearing:
A Petition for Termination purs. to PrC§12251 has been filed and set for hearing on 03/17/26.
Hearing of 03/17/26 will be confirmed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000601 ESTATE OF CAROL HAWKINS
Account Review Hearing continued from 10/22/25:
A PrC§12200 Status Report has been filed and set for hearing 02/18/26.
Hearing of 02/18/26 will be confirmed.

Hearing on Order to Show Cause issued 08/15/25 to Administrator, continued from 10/22/25:
Order to Show Cause will be discharged, pursuant to court’s order of 10/22/25, as a Status Report has been filed and set for hearing purs. to PrC§12200.

Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000903 ESTATE OF DENISE MARIE BUTLER
Account Review Hearing continued from 04/29/25, 09/03/25:
Neither Petition for Final Distribution nor Second PrC§12200 Status Report are on file.
See Local Rule 8.82 and also Probate Code sections 12200, and 9000 through 9399. 
Please review your responsibilities in the Duties and Liabilities, Form DE-147, you signed and filed.
Appearance by Administrator (self-represented) required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-001091 ESTATE OF CAMERON K. SCHLICHT

2. Hearing on First Report and First Account of Executor and Petition for Compensation to Attorneys for Extraordinary Services, for Reimbursement of Costs Advanced and for Distribution continued from 06/03/25, 06/05/25, 10/08/25:
Prior Notes have been cured. 
Personal representative reimbursed herself for administrative expenses without first obtaining prior court approval, and has provided documentation to support the allegation that the reimbursements were for administrative expenses. Submitted to court for determination.
Request for extraordinary attorney fees submitted to court for determination.
Personal representative has, in the second Supplement file-marked 01/23/26 (ten months after the accounting was originally filed) provided a Schedule of proposed distribution. The request is to distribute personal property with appraisal value of $51,000.00 and $44,281.40 cash and retain $75,000.00. The aggregate of the proposed preliminary distribution is less than 50% of the net value of the estate in the inventory and appraisal which is permitted pursuant to PrC§11623.
Objection filed – 10/01/25 by S. Wright; objection is specific as to the proposal to distribute three firearms to the Guardian ad litem. Would Ms. Wright consent, as custodian, to receiving the property on behalf of the minor heir(s)? Please see Local Rule 8.84 and PrC§3401.

1. Hearing on Petition to Confirm Assets to Probate Estate, to Compel Return of Assets and Related Information, and to Compel Account and Report continued from 08/29/24, 10/18/24, 02/04/25, 06/05/25, 10/08/25:
Objection filed – 05/29/25 by Meta Platforms Inc.
Objection filed – 05/29/25 by S. Wright.
Status Report filed by Executor on 05/29/25 included allegation of settlement with Respondent, Google, however the attached Exhibit A does not appear to be an agreement but rather a proposed Order. There has been no request that the court approve a stipulation or settlement agreement in this matter between Petitioner and that Respondent.
Possible long-cause matter.
Trial-setting.

Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000488 C. SCHLICHT 2022 TRUST, DTD SEPTEMBER 15, 2022
Hearing on Petition for Modification of Trust continued from 09/16/25, 10/08/25:
Nothing filed since previous hearing. Prior Note remains:
•    Petition does not include a prayer for relief at the end of the pleading. 
    o    On 10/08/25, the court directed the petitioner to file documents to cure this defect before this hearing. See California Rules of Court rules 7.3 and 7.53.
Objection filed - 09/12/25 by S. Wright. Brief in support of Objection filed 10/03/25.
Appearance required (by VCourt if preferred).
 
PR-24-001144 ESTATE OF CHARLES JOSEPH RUSSELL, AKA CHARLES J. RUSSELL
Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration continued from 01/08/25, 04/16/25, 07/02/25:
Requested bond of $550,000.00 appears adequate based on estimated value of estate alleged in the petition.
•    Supplement to Petition, Item 8 identified the name of the unknown heir, Arthur Leland Russell.  Pursuant to the results of the heir search, the location of this individual is still unknown: 
    o    All interested parties must be given notice. If any individual is unable to be given notice because their location is unknown, a Declaration must be filed regarding petitioner’s diligent efforts to locate that individual. See Local Rule 8.14 B, California Rules of Court rule 7.52.
Declaration (file marked 12/19/25) and request that the Court dispense with notice for Arthur Leland Russell submitted to the Judge for Determination.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000256 RODRIGUEZ 2008 REVOCABLE TRUST
Related Case PR-25-000284
Hearing on Petition regarding Internal Affairs of a Trust and Request for Appointment of Trustee Probate Code §17200; Confirming Removal of Trustee, Appointing Trustee (filed by Patricia Romo) reset on the court’s own motion from 08/05/25, continued from 08/13/25, 10/28/25:
Prior Notes remain:
•    Proof of notice to trustee not on file. Declaration file marked 09/23/25 alleges that the trustee is now deceased.
•    It appears necessary that the court set a bond pursuant to PrC§15602(a)(3), however petition did not request a bond nor did it allege the amount of bond that would be appropriate. Matter will be submitted to judge if appointment is sought.
Declaration file marked 09/23/25 alleges that the trustee is now deceased and that petitioner no longer seeks appointment which results in the above notes being moot.  
Need status of petition.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000284 RODRIGUEZ 2008 REVOCABLE TRUST
Related Case PR-25-000256
Hearing on Petition Regarding Family Trust Established by Jesus Espinoza Rodriguez in 2008 (filed by Daniel Rodriguez, David Rodriguez, Julian Rodriguez, Esther Bristow and Linda Rodriguez) reset on court’s own motion from 08/07/25, continued from 08/21/25, 10/28/25:
•    It appears necessary that the court set a bond pursuant to PrC§15602(a)(3), however petition did not request a bond nor did it allege the amount of bond that would be appropriate.
•    Notice of Hearing not on file.
•    Petition did not list those who are entitled to notice (PrC §172001).
•    Proposed order has not been submitted.
On 10/28/25, counsel indicated that parties were attempting to settle.
Need status of settlement agreement.
Appearances required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-001122 ESTATE OF PETER OSTERHOLM
Hearing on Petition to Determine Succession to Primary Residence:
•    Notice of Hearing file-marked 01/30/25 appears defective, in that the filer used Form DE-115 and not Form DE-120. Form DE-115 gives notice that the petition was filed under Probate Code section 850, which is not correct for this matter. See PrC§§13655, 1220.
•    Proof of mailing not on file for the Department of Health Care Services, nor Declaration that notice is not required (see Local Rule 8.17 and PrC§215).
•    The property is alleged to be for “special recreational use.”  If so, this petition does not appear appropriate. Please provide additional detail in Attachment 11 to satisfy petition item 11(2) (facts that show the property was decedent’s primary residence in California).
•    Please provide additional detail in Attachment 11 to satisfy petition item 11(3) (facts that show the asset was decedent’s separate property). A copy of the current recorded grant deed was not attached. See Local Rule 8.99.
Recommend continuance to 05/20/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-20-001129 ESTATE OF STACEY CARLSON, AKA STACEY LEIGH CARLSON, STACEY MONAGHAN
Hearing on Fourth PrC§12200 Status Report of Administration: 
Notice appears complete.
Recommend court allow estate to remain open and set a further Account Review Hearing 01/12/2027 at which time a Fifth PrC§12200 Status Report must be filed if the estate is not in a position to be closed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000308 ESTATE OF GEORGE DOUGLAS BIXLER, SR.
Hearing on Petition for Court Approval of Resignation of Co-Administrator:
If no one appears to object, recommend approval of petition.
Recommend court discharge Letters issued 08/18/25 and direct clerk’s office to issue new Letters appointing “Carlene Fay Lee” as administrator.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001082 ESTATE OF DAVID OWENS
Hearing on First and Final Report of Personal Representative; for Approval of Account; for Statutory Compensation to Attorney and to Personal Representative; for Attorney Fees for Extraordinary Services; and for Final Distribution of the Estate:
•    Paragraph 7 (inventory and appraisal) recites total inventory of $218,581.44. This does not match the court’s calculations of the I&As on file ($239,355.03) nor does the calculation match the base amount for compensation itemized in Exhibit C.  According to the court’s calculation, the fee base amount for compensation appears to be $241,643.85 which renders a compensation amount of $7,832.88.  See CRC rule 7.705. 
•    Please explain the purpose of the three disbursements totaling $1,511.62 itemized on Schedule C as “attorney costs.”
•    Schedule C (disbursements) itemizes “reimbursement” to Daniel Guhl in the amount of $2,146.16.  Reimbursement for administrative expenses of the personal representative from estate funds must be authorized by the Court.  Failure to obtain the court’s authority prior to reimbursing oneself may be grounds for surcharge.
    o    Any costs incurred by the personal representative for attendance at the decedent’s funeral, travel/gas, postage/mailing, meals are not reimbursable expenses ($1,396.16).
    o    Please explain the reimbursement for $700.00 “legal fees.”  It appears this may have been part of the costs paid recited in paragraph 16 of the report, but is not adequately explained.
•    Paragraph 16 (services and costs) recites an outstanding cost balance of $864.79 and was modified to $843.74 in a later filed declaration.  Itemization of costs of administration was omitted from the report (see Local Rules 8.69, 8.83K).
See California Rules of Court rules 7.3 and 7.53 regarding the types of forms that may be used to address these defects.
•    Proposed Order as the following defects:
    o    Paragraph 11 is phrased as the Court’s order instead of the court’s findings.
    o    Finding regarding notice was omitted [see PrC§1260].
Request for extraordinary compensation to attorney will be submitted to the court once other defects are cured.
•    Please note: Declaration re Attorney’s Fees (file marked 01/26/26) attached a summary of costs that includes items that are considered costs of doing business and are not reimbursable: photocopies, postage/mailing, faxing. Total $820.80.
Recommend continuance to 03/18/26 to coincide with previously set Account Review Hearing.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000258 ESTATE OF SUSAN I. LEWIS, AKA SUSAN IRENE LEWIS
Hearing on First and Final Account and Report of Administration and Petition for Settlement Thereof; for Allowance of Compensation for Executor’s and Attorneys’ Ordinary Services; and for Final Distribution:
Please note that reimbursement of the personal representative from estate funds for administrative expenses must be authorized by the court, and that failure to obtain the court’s authority prior to reimbursing oneself may be grounds for surcharge. Matter will be submitted to Judge when defects are cured.
•    Please supplement the report describing the use of Personal Representative’s personal funds and later reimbursement from estate.
•    Please provide supporting documentation regarding the estate expenses for which the personal representative reimbursed herself and family members without prior court authorization, to wit: copies of receipts from the hardware store, receipts or paid invoices from the utility company, and receipts or paid invoices from funeral home…etc.
    o    Funeral expenses would appear to fall under PrC§9000 (creditor’s claims), and pursuant to PrC9252, creditor’s claims were not submitted to the court for allowance or rejection.
•    The amounts for reimbursement to Debra reflected in Schedule VIII do not agree with the amounts reflected in the schedule for disbursements.  The disbursement schedule appears to total $23,912.23 to Debra, while the expense schedule totals $23,704.83. Please clarify.
Recommend continuance to 05/14/26 to allow time to provide additional information.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-25-000618 FELIPE M. TERAN SPECIAL NEEDS TRUST
Hearing on Petition to Request Back Pay, Cell Phone Purchase, Vacation Allowance and Vehicle Purchase:
Please provide further detail on the following:
•    What are the general expenses of the trust? What is the trust paying for currently?
•    After care giver expenses are paid, will the beneficiary have sufficient funds? 
•    What is the prediction for the beneficiary’s monthly income of $18,000.00?  How long is that expected to last?
•    Please provide the description on the vehicle the trustee is seeking to purchase for the trust.  What kind of vehicle? What is the exact price, including taxes?
•    Notice of hearing not on file.
•    Please address the Trustee’s bond. It does not appear to be filed.
Recommend continuance to 04/01/26 to coincide with previously set Account Review Hearing.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-001068 ELSA CASTANON LIVING TRUST DTD SEPTEMBER 13, 2011
Hearing on Petition for Instructing the Trustee and Removal of Trustee (Probate Code §§ 17200, 15642): 
•    Petition seeks to remove trustee but did not identify and seek confirmation of the named successor under the trust.
•    Need order.
Hearing required.
Appearance by petitioner’s counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-26-000009 ESTATE OF DONALD GORDON CHISAMORE
Hearing on Petition to Determine Succession to Primary Residence:
•    Petition item 9b was not completed (existence of stepchild or foster child who would have been adopted but for a legal barrier).
•    Attachment 11 item 2 misstates the decedent’s name.
•    Please provide additional facts to establish that the property in question was decedent’s primary residence at time of death.
•    Notice of Hearing file-marked 01/06/26 was on Form DE-115, which applies to petitions filed purs. to PrC§850. Form DE-150 is the correct form for notice of this type of proceeding. (PrC§§13153, 1220).
•    Proof of mailing not on file for the Department of Health Care Services, nor Declaration that notice is not required (see Local Rule 8.17 and PrC§215).
Recommend continuance to 03/13/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

9:30AM

PR-24-000404 ESTATE OF JOHN MARTINEZ AYOLT HETTINGA, AKA JOHN M.A. HETTINGA AKA JOHN HETTINGA
Court Trial:
Appearances mandatory.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2026

Department 22
8:30 a.m.

PR-19-000552 ESTATE OF DOUGLAS BERNARD PIERCE
Hearing on Petition and Statement of Facts to Recover Money or Property on Deposit in Treasury (filed by Nighthawk Investigations) continued from 03/05/25, 06/05/25, 10/21/25:
Nothing filed since last hearing. Prior notes remain:
•    Notice of Hearing not on file.
•    Assignments of Interest must be notarized and filed separately, not attached to any other pleading. See Local Rule 8.87 and PrC§11604. 
•    Assignment of Interest not on file for intestate heir: Catherine Pierce. 
•    Petition is not verified.
•    It appears the Court has not been provided with a 13100 Affidavit signed by the parties as to the share from Brian’s estate.
•    Division of interest does not appear to be correct.  It should be divided as follows: ½ to Catherine, 1/6 of the total amount at issue to first child, 1/6 to second, and 1/6 to Nighthawk.  The calculation of 1/3 to Nighthawk is incorrect.
If Petitioner disagrees with this division, please provide a memorandum of points & authorities for the Court’s review.
Need status of prior notes.
Appearance by counsel required.  (Anyone wishing to appear may do so in person or by telephone, using VCourt).

PR-23-000053 ESTATE OF BRADLEY CONLEY
Account Review Hearing:
Account Review Hearing will be dropped.

Hearing on First and Final Report of Administrator on Waiver of Account and Petition for its Settlement; Petition for Allowance for Statutory Compensation for Ordinary and Extraordinary Services by the Attorney and Statutory Compensation to the Administrator; for Reimbursement of Costs Advanced and for Final Distribution of Estate continued from 01/29/26:
Nothing filed since previous hearing; the court set this matter on a quick turnaround as a courtesy, since there was already a review hearing on calendar.
•    Please provide copies of supporting documentation regarding the Administrator’s request for reimbursement of personal funds, e.g.: invoices noted as paid, receipts, mortgage statements, or as a last resort – copies of financial account statements with all but the last four digits of the account number redacted purs. to California Rule of Court.
•    Need new proposed Order purs. to Supplement file-marked 12/08/25.
Recommend continuance to 04/17/26 to allow time to cure defect.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000659 ESTATE OF ENRIQUE GARCIA BENAVIDES, AKA HENRY BENAVIDES
Hearing on First and Final Report of Personal Representative on Waiver of Account and Petition for its Settlement, for Allowance of Compensation for Ordinary Services, and for Final Distribution continued from 04/08/25, 06/13/25, 10/21/25:
There were no defects in the present pleading. The original request regarding fees was that the court authorize and direct the personal representative to pay her attorney’s statutory fees from her personal funds; there was no specific allegation or request regarding the Guardian’s ad litem fees.
On 06/13/25, the personal representative’s attorney requested a continuance as the personal representative had allegedly not paid the fees for the Guardian ad litem.
On 10/17/25, the former Guardian ad litem filed a Declaration setting forth his fees and costs.
The Minute Order of 10/21/25 reflects that the court ordered the personal representative to liquidate sufficient estate assets within sixty (60) days to satisfy outstanding estate liabilities.
The personal representative’s attorney has filed a Supplement, filed on 01/16/26, which (seemingly incorrectly) alleges that the court’s order was that the personal representative either pay the attorney’s fees and the Guardian ad litem’s fees from her personal funds, or liquidate estate assets. The Minute Order does not reflect that the court made any order that the PR pay the GAL’s fees from her own funds. In fact, until and unless the court approves the present petition, there has been no order awarding fees or costs.

Recommend court issue Order to Show Cause to personal representative to appear and show cause why she should not be suspended, surcharged and/or removed from office for neglecting this estate. See PrC§§8500, 8502.
Recommend court refer matter to the Public Administrator and County Counsel, pursuant to PrC§7621, for appointment of Public Administrator as Special Administrator to finalize this estate.
Should the personal representative fail to appear at this hearing, the court may suspend her from office purs. to PrC§8500.
Appearance by the personal representative and counsel mandatory (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000295 ESTATE OF GERALDINE KITCHENS, AKA GERALDINE SANTOS
1.    Hearing on Petition to Determine Persons Entitled to Distribution of Estate (PrC§11700) continued from 08/20/24, 12/04/24, 02/20/25, 06/25/25, 10/21/25:
Petitioner filed a Declaration in support of the petition, file-marked 03/04/25.
On 10/21/25, the court set a deadline of the end of business on 01/09/26 for filing of a PrC§11702 statement either in support or opposition of the petition. None filed.
Submitted to court for determination purs. to PrC§11705: “The court shall make an order that determines the persons entitled to distribution of the decedent’s estate and specifies their shares.”

2.    Inventory Review Hearing continued from 02/20/25, 06/25/25, 10/21/25:
Letters issued 05/02/25. Final Inventory and Appraisal due 09/02/25.
Final Inventory and Appraisal not on file.
On 10/21/25 the court compelled Personal Representative to file the Final Inventory and Appraisal pursuant to Probate Code § 8804 within sixty (60) days. Not on file.
Recommend court issue an Order to Show Cause to personal representative to appear and show cause why they should not be suspended, surcharged, and/or removed from office for failure to abide by the court’s order. 

3.    Review Hearing on Requests for Judicial Notice file-marked 07/29/24 and 08/28/24 continued from 06/25/25, 10/21/25:
Submitted to court for determination. 

Appearance by Executor, Executor’s counsel and Petitioner’s counsel (C. Lawrence) required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000596 ESTATE OF FLOYD D. GOODMAN
Account Review Hearing continued from 10/09/25:
On 10/09/25, the court directed that a PrC§12200 Status Report must be filed if estate is not in a position to be closed. Neither Petition for Final Distribution nor PrC§12200 Status Report are on file.
•    Recommend court issue Order to Show Cause to Administrator and Administrator’s counsel to be personally present pursuant to PrC§12202:
    o    To show condition of estate and why estate cannot be distributed and closed;
    o    So that court may order Administrator to prepare and file a First Account Current at the court’s discretion pursuant to PrC§12202(b).
    o    Noncompliance may result in removal of personal representative from office (PrC§§12204, 8500).
Appearance by Administrator and Administrator’s counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000782 ESTATE OF DIANA LEE DIMENCO-FREER
Account Review Hearing:
•    Neither Petition for Final Distribution nor (Second) PrC§12200 Status Report are on file at the time of review.  See Local Rule 8.82. 
Recommend court order personal representative to file a PrC§12200 Status Report (with Notice pursuant to PrC§12201) within 90 days if estate is not in a position to be closed.
Recommend continuance to 06/18/26 to allow time for filing of above pleadings. 
If neither pleading is on file by the next hearing date, the court may issue an order to show cause for personal representative to appear pursuant to PrC§12202.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000039 ESTATE OF CALI WARFA, AKA CALI M. WARFA
Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration continued from 02/27/25, 07/01/25, 10/21/25:
Most prior Notes were cured. Results of heir search are on file; Decedent’s heirs have been located and notice appears complete.
Prior Note: Petition Attachment 3g(2)(a) included the allegation that the proposed personal representative was “seeking to be appointed” in the sister-state where decedent resided at time of death, and therefore PrC§12513 does not appear to yet apply. Petitioner appeared therefore to have the least priority to serve as a personal representative than any other person or entity described in Pr. Code §§ 8461, 8465. On 02/27/25, the court ordered petitioner to mail notice to the Public Administrator pursuant to PrC§8100 et seq.
•    New Note: Unfortunately, it appears that the petitioner gave notice to the Office of the Public Guardian rather than the Public Administrator. The mailing address for the latter is “Public Administrator, Stanislaus County Coroner’s Facility, 921 Oakdale Road, Modesto, CA 95355”.
Recommend continuance to 03/27/26 to allow time for petitioner to either give (mailed) notice to the Public Administrator at the address above, or file a certified copy of Letters issued in sister state for probate of (domiciliary) decedent’s estate purs. to PrC§12513.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000345 ESTATE OF DORSENA M. TIPTON
Inventory Review Hearing:
Letters issued 08/15/25. Inventory and Appraisal due 12/15/25.
Final Inventory and Appraisal not on file. See Local Rule 8.41 B, Probate Code section 8800 et seq.
Consider visiting the California Courts Self Help “inventory” page at
https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/probate/inventory-estimate-value and downloading forms from https://www.courts.ca.gov/forms.htm and please review your responsibilities in the Duties and Liabilities, Form DE-147, you signed and filed.
Appearance by Administrator (self-represented) required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000431 ESTATE OF JOHN W. FATTALINI, JR.
Inventory Review Hearing:
Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.
Please note that the PR has filed multiple documents with the wrong address for the court in the heading. This court is located at 801 10th Street, Modesto, CA. The clerk’s office is located on the fourth floor and the courtroom, Department 22, is located on the sixth floor.
Recommend Account Review Hearing 10/14/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.82.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000664 STEVEN A. SANDERS 2023 TRUST
Hearing on Petition for Order Directing Trustee to Account and Report and for Production of Trust Records continued from 10/21/25:
No defects in the petition.
Response to Petition filed 10/15/25 (by Drew Steven Sanders) 
On 10/21/25, the court granted petitioner’s request for limited discovery and found the issue of accounting moot.  Parties were directed to meet and confer in advance of today’s hearing to determine if today’s hearing is necessary or not.  Nothing has been filed indicating this hearing is not necessary. 
Possible long cause. 
Hearing required.
Appearances required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-001008 TRAMMELL 19698 TRUST DTD JUNE 11, 1998, AS AMENDED – THE SURVIVORS TRUST
Hearing on Respondent Brianna Trammell’s Demurrer to Petition continued from 01/27/26:
SEE TENTATIVE RULING, to be posted day prior to hearing at https://www.stanislaus.courts.ca.gov/online-services/tentative-rulings/…

PR-21-000958 ESTATE OF LINDA ANN WATSON
Hearing on Fourth PrC§12200 Status Report of Administration:
Notice appears complete. 
Recommend court allow estate to remain open and set a further Account Review Hearing 02/02/27 at which time a Fourth PrC§12200 Status Report must be filed, if the estate is not in a position to be closed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000394 ESTATE OF SHIRLEY LAWRENCE
Hearing on First and Final Report of Administrator on Waiver of Account and Petition for Final Distribution:
REVIEW IN PROGRESS. PLEASE CHECK BACK.

PR-25-000027 ESTATE OF VICTORIA L. CALANTONI, AKA VICTORIA CALANTONI, VICTORIA HOLLOWAY
Hearing on Report on Waiver of Account and Petition for Final Distribution, Waiver of Executor Fees; Allowance of Compensation to Attorney for Ordinary Services; and Confirmation of Costs and Allowance of Reimbursement to Attorney for Costs Advanced to the Estate:
Recommend approval of Report and Petition.
Recommend court vacate Account Review Hearing of 07/07/26.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 08/20/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-001096 G RUSSELL AND PATRICIA C. COSGRAVE TRUST
Hearing on Petition for Order Compelling Trustee to Account and Report; for Suspension of Trustee and Appointment of Temporary Trustee; and for Removal of Trustee and Appointment of Successor Trustee (PrC §§15642, 16061, 16420, 17200)
REVIEW IN PROGRESS. PLEASE CHECK BACK.

PR-25-001156 HECTOR R. ZELAYA REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST
Hearing on Petition for Return of Property (Probate Code §850); for Double Damages (Probate Code §859); Quiet Title; Cancellation of Deed (CC §3412); Fraud; Breach of Fiduciary Duty; Conversion; to Impose Constructive Trust; Unjust Enrichment; and Financial Elder Abuse (WIC §15610.30); for Attorneys’ Fees and Costs:
REVIEW IN PROGRESS. PLEASE CHECK BACK.

PR-26-000011 ESTATE OF NGA VAN LE
Hearing on Spousal Property Petition:
Petition item 9 omitted relationship.
Proposed Order:
Item 3 - Date of death does not agree with the petition.
Item 3a/3b – Decedent’s residency does not agree with the petition.
Recommend continuance to 03/20/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000014 ESTATE OF CARMEN LOYA, AKA CARSMEN SANDOVAL LOYA
Hearing on Petition for Probate of Will and for Letters of Administration with Will Annexed:
Will is not self-proving. Proof of Subscribing Witness is on file.
•    Need Letters.
Recommend approval of Petition and admission of Will to probate.
Recommend Inventory Review Hearing 08/11/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.41 B.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2026
COURT HOLIDAY