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.

FRIDAY, MAY 08, 2026
Department 22
8:30 a.m.

PR-22-000875 ESTATE OF J. JESUS JIMENEZ
Hearing on First Amended (file-marked 11/17/25) Petition and Report on First and Final Account of Administration, for Waiver of Statutory Commission by Administrator, for Allowance of Statutory Attorney Fees, and for Final Distribution continued from 07/31/25, 11/18/25, 03/24/26:
Prior Notes have been cured.
Recommend approval of Amended Petition and Account.
Please submit a new proposed Order: 
•    The order for distribution was placed in the section of the order with the court’s findings, rather than the section containing the court’s orders.
•    Paragraph 5 is not an order the court will make (“such further orders as the court deems proper”).
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 11/19/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-001299 MATTER OF LIDIA BETTENCOURT 2017 REVOCABLE TRUST
1)    Hearing on Court’s Motion to Dismiss:
On 03/10/26, competing petitioners each dismissed their own petition. There is no other cause of action pending; the Examiner believes the court’s jurisdiction ended at the hearing on 03/10/26.
If no moving document is filed before this hearing, recommend the case be dismissed.

2)    Review Hearing:
Set on court’s own motion 03/10/26 to receive consent and acceptance of Monica Ramos, CLPF, as successor trustee.
Consent and acceptance not on file. A Notice of Entry of Order is on file, reflecting that a copy of the court’s Order After Hearing from 03/10/26 was served, but it does not reflect that a copy was served on Monica Ramos, CLPF.

3)    Bond Review Hearing:
Set on court’s own motion 03/10/26 to ensure proof of $800,000.00 bond is on file from successor trustee.
Bond is not on file. A Notice of Entry of Order is on file, reflecting that a copy of the court’s Order After Hearing from 03/10/26 was served, but it does not reflect that a copy was served on Monica Ramos, CLPF.

No appearance required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000757 ESTATE OF DARRELL VERN BYE, JR. AKA DARRELL V. BYE, JR. DARRELL BYE

1.    Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration (filed by D. Ferreira) continued from 09/04/24, 09/19/24, 12/12/24, 07/03/25, 12/02/25, 02/04/26, 03/19/26:
Objection filed – 09/05/25, by M. Bye.

2.    Hearing on Petition for Probate of Will and for Letters Testamentary (filed by M. Bye) continued from 09/19/24, 12/12/24, 07/03/25, 12/02/25, 02/04/26, 03/19/26:
Will is not self-proving per Local Rule 8.23.  Proof of Subscribing Witness on file.
Opposition filed – 09/05/25, by D. Ferreira (will contest).
Timely Declaration and Opposition thereto filed as the court had directed, as to the separately-filed “Verification” on 09/12/25. Will be submitted to court’s determination at the continued hearing.

Possible long-cause matter. 

Recommend continuance to 05/12/26, to coincide with hearing on Motion to Strike, for judicial economy.
No appearance required. Anyone choosing to appear may do so either in person or remotely, by telephone, using VCourt.

PR-24-000782 ESTATE OF DIANA LEE DIMENCO-FREER
Hearing on PrC§12200 Status Report of Administration continued from 04/01/26:
Notice is complete.
Recommend court set a further Account Review Hearing 09/09/26.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001068 ESTATE MILDRED JANICE BRYSON-DAVIS
Hearing on Report and Waiver of Accounting of Estate Representative and Petition for Order Settling Report; Directing Final Distribution; Allowing Statutory Compensation and Granting Other Relief continued from 01/21/26, 03/25/26:
Prior defects cured. New note:
•    The order and the supplements do not agree and do not appear to match the court’s calculation. 
    o    Supplement to petition (file marked 02/18/26) recites distribution after compensation to be $310,578.76.
    o    Supplement to petition (file marked 02/18/26) itemizes costs totaling $1,412.96. Neither the second supplement providing the proposed distribution nor the order recite reimbursement of costs. Please explain.  Is attorney waiving reimbursement of costs?
    o    Second Supplement to petition (file marked 05/05/26) recites distribution to the trustee in the amount of $287,165.31 and also omitted compensation to attorney and costs.
Please further supplement to clarify the distribution amount to the trust and submit a new order accordingly.
Recommend continuance to 07/10/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-26-000109 ESTATE OF BRAD JOSEPH GRAVES
Hearing on Petition to Determine Succession to Primary Residence continued from 03/17/26:
Prior Notes have been cured.
If no one appears to object, recommend court find notice complete and approve the petition.
Recommend court hold hearing regarding fees. Appearance by Petitioner (self-represented) required at Fee Waiver Hearing [GC§68636(c)].

MONDAY, MAY 11, 2026
Department 24
10:00 a.m.

PR-25-000508 TRAMMELL 1998 TRUST DTD JUNE 11, 1998, AS AMENDED – THE BYPASS TRUST
Settlement Conference continued from 05/04/26:
Appearances mandatory.
Any person wishing to appear remotely must obtain the court’s permission to appear via VCourt by contacting the courtroom clerk.

TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2026
Department 22
8:30 a.m.

PR-19-001177 ESTATE OF JOHN LEE PEELER, AKA JOHN L. PEELER, JOHN PEELER
Hearing on Fourth PrC§12200 Status Report of Administration continued from 01/13/26:
Per the Minute Order of 01/13/26, the personal representative’s request to dismiss the case was denied, and the court continued the hearing on the Report to allow the personal representative time to file a Petition to Dismiss or a Petition to Terminate Proceedings, with points and authorities. Not on file.
Need status.
Appearance by counsel required. (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-20-000879 ESTATE OF MIGUEL AVILA, SR.
Account Review Hearing continued from 01/13/26:
Fourth PrC§12200 Status Report has been filed and set for hearing 06/11/26.
Hearing of 06/11/26 will be confirmed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-21-001379 MATTER OF MARY JESSIE SWANSON REVOCABLE TRUST  
Hearing on First Amended (file-marked 05/19/25) Petition for Damages on Rejected Creditor’s Claim for (1) Intentional Misrepresentation; (2) Breach of Implied Covenant of Good Faith and Fair Dealing; (3) Negligence continued from 03/04/25. 07/15/25, 01/13/26: 
Case status: On calendar for setting of short-cause hearing as to 1) whether the claim at issue is subject to creditor’s claims procedures; 2) whether the petition at issue should be deemed a civil matter and transferred to the civil department of either this court or Contra Costa County.
Matter was previously continued from 07/15/25 at request of both sides to allow time for settlement efforts, possibly mediation.
Nothing filed since the previous hearing. Notes from the prior hearing: Separate status reports are on file. Both sides reported a related case in Contra Costa County (where this court was considering transferring this matter). Respondent’s report reflected that there is a Motion pending in Contra Costa regarding consolidation and transfer (of their matter and this matter).
Need status.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000976 ESTATE OF DENNIS BRADFORD
Account Review Hearing continued from 01/08/26:
On 01/08/26 court ordered the personal representative to file a PrC§12200 Status Report with Notice of Hearing within 90 days if estate is not in position to be closed.
Petition for Final Distribution has been filed and set for hearing on 07/22/26.
Hearing of 07/22/26 will be confirmed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-24-000338 ESTATE OF PATRICIA ROSE HOLDER
Account Review Hearing continued from 01/08/26:
On 01/08/26 court ordered the personal representative to file a PrC§12200 Status Report with Notice of Hearing within 90 days if estate is not in position to be closed.
Petition for Final Distribution has been filed and set for hearing on 07/21/26.
Hearing of 07/21/26 will be confirmed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-24-000558 ESTATE OF HOSSEIN MORAD ZANGANEH
Account Review Hearing continued from 01/08/26:
On 01/08/26 court ordered the personal representative to file a PrC§12200 Status Report with Notice of Hearing within 90 days if estate is not in position to be closed.
• Neither Petition for Final Distribution nor PrC§12200 Status Report have been filed. 
Recommend court issue Order to Show Cause to personal representative and personal representative’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 personal representative 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 executor and executor’s counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001364 ESTATE OF SIERRA SUNSHINE MORGAN
Account Review Hearing:
•    Neither Petition for Final Distribution nor 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 09/22/26 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-25-000083 MATTER OF DONALD LARRY LILLEGARD AND DENISE LOUISE LILLEGARD 2002 TRUST
2.  Hearing on Trustee’s Report and Account:
• Schedule of Receipts omitted payor of rent.
• Schedule of Disbursements ought to be separate from Schedule of Distributions. Please prepare a separate Schedule for each.
• Schedule of Disbursements/Distributions: 
      o    Multiple entries omitted payee; multiple entries were not specific as to purpose. Example: “Check 1077 – Bldg. Pmt” omitted payee and the purpose is not clear. Additionally, use of abbreviations in an account is not appropriate except for universally understood acronyms like IRS and USPS.
      o    Please specify the type of insurance in the description of the distribution’s purpose.
      o    Please specify the type of tax in the description of the distribution’s purpose.
      o    When distribution is made to an attorney or law office, please describe the purpose (legal fees, retainer, etc.) If there’s litigation involved, please identify the court and include the case number.
      o    “Supplies” does not appear sufficiently descriptive as a purpose. Supplies for what?
      o    The last two entries were dated in the future, Examiner assumes that’s a typographical error.
• Schedule of Liabilities was not attached.
• There are four “Notes” that appear at the end of the Schedule of Disbursements/Distributions; the first note is cut-off, but also, any complicated or unusual circumstances ought to be reported in the Report, not as a footnote in the accounting. Please see PrC§1064. It seems that Trustee intended to explain why identifying the purpose and payee of disbursements is irrelevant, but Examiner cannot be sure as the sentence is incomplete. In case it applies, please see PrC§1063(c) and (f).
• Please elaborate on the terms of the “triple-net” lease; does the renter pay all taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs? The Schedule of Disbursements/Distributions included entries for insurance, taxes. 
• Trustee’s Report reflects that she has commingled the income generated by rent that belongs 50% each to the Exemption Trust and the Survivor’s Trust, reporting all in one Schedule of Receipts, and that as the beneficiary of both sub-trusts she is entitled to all net income and may “withdraw all principal of the Survivor’s Trust, and invade the principal of the Exemption Trust”. Is that her explanation for why she has not or is not required to show how net income was computed and allocated between the two trusts, and/or to show whether the distributions to Trustee were distributions of income or principal? If so, please provide points and authorities, as it appears that remainder beneficiaries may be entitled to know whether the principal was invaded and why.
Objection filed – 03/30/26, by Petitioner, B. Lillegard. 

1.    Hearing on First Amended Petition (file-marked 06/11/25, by B. Lillegard) to Compel Account or Report continued from 06/04/25, 11/19/25, 04/14/26:
Objection filed – 10/31/25, by Respondent/Trustee.

Submit to court’s determination whether to continue this matter or set a hearing on court’s motion to dismiss: the moving document in this proceeding was Petitioner’s Petition to Compel Account or Report. An Account has been prepared and served. With that issue appearing moot (which is the court’s authority to determine), there appears to be no further cause of action pending. The court’s approval of the Account was not specifically pled for by the Trustee, however, pursuant to Pr. Code §1064(b), the filing of an account shall be deemed to include a petition for its approval.

Appearance by petitioner (self-represented) and counsel for trustee required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000306 ESTATE OF MICHELE IRENE JANSON
Account Review Hearing:
•    Neither Petition for Final Distribution nor 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 09/22/26 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-25-000493 MATTER OF PRITCHARD FAMILY TRUST
Hearing on Petition 1) Financial Elder Abuse; 2) Breach of Trust and Fiduciary Duty; 3) Compel Accounting; 4) Compel Distribution; 5) Surcharge for Damages Resulting from Breach of Trust; 6) Constructive Trust; 7) Suspension and Removal of Trustee; 8) Instructions continued from 09/18/25, 01/21/26:
A proof of service is on file reflecting that the Respondent was personally served with a copy of the petition and notice of hearing on the petition. The form does not state which NOH was served, and it does not appear that a NOH for this hearing on 05/12/26 has been filed. Does petitioner’s counsel acknowledge that the respondent was personally served and waive the defect in the proof of the notice?
Hearing required. 
Appearances required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000881 ESTATE OF JONATHAN FLORES
Hearing on Amended Second PrC§12200 Status Report of Administration:
Notice appears complete.
Recommend court allow estate to remain open and set a further Account Review Hearing 04/27/27 at which time a Third Status Report will be due if the estate is not in a position to be closed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000757 ESTATE OF DARRELL VERN BYE, JR. AKA DARRELL V. BYE, JR. DARRELL BYE

1.    Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration (filed by D. Ferreira) continued from 09/04/24, 09/19/24, 12/12/24, 07/03/25, 12/02/25, 02/04/26, 03/19/26:
Objection filed – 09/05/25, by M. Bye.
Posture of this matter is trial-setting, trailing readiness of competing petition for trial-setting.

2.    Hearing on Petition for Probate of Will and for Letters Testamentary (filed by M. Bye) continued from 09/19/24, 12/12/24, 07/03/25, 12/02/25, 02/04/26, 03/19/26:
Will is not self-proving per Local Rule 8.23.  Proof of Subscribing Witness on file.
Opposition filed – 09/05/25, by D. Ferreira (will contest).
Submitted to court’s determination: Timely Declaration and Opposition thereto filed as the court had directed, as to the separately-filed “Verification” on 09/12/25. 
Hearing required.

3.    Hearing on Motion to Strike Opposition:
SEE TENTATIVE RULING, to be posted day prior to hearing at https://www.stanislaus.courts.ca.gov/online-services/tentative-rulings/…

Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000771 ESTATE OF MICHAEL HOWARD WEAVER, AKA MICHAEL H. WEAVER
Hearing on First and Final Report of Administrator on Waiver of Account and Petition for Allowance of Compensation to Administrator for Ordinary Services and to Attorney for Ordinary Services and Extraordinary Services and for Final Distribution:
Recommend approval of Report and Petition.
Recommend court vacate Account Review Hearing of 09/10/26.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 11/19/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000547 ESTATE OF ADELAIDE S. LINDO, AKA ADELAIDE AUGUSTA LINDO
Hearing on First and Final Report of Administrator on Waiver of Accounting and Petition for its Settlement, for Allowance of Compensation for Ordinary Services and Costs, and for Final Distribution:
•    There has been no request that the court take judicial notice of the notarized Assignments filed in the proceedings regarding the estates of this decedent’s surviving-but-now-deceased devisees, CLARA LINDO and JOE LINDO, case PR-26-000263 and PR-26-000264, respectively.
Recommend court on its own motion take judicial notice of the Petitions to Determine Succession filed in case PR-26-000263 for the Estate of Clara Lindo and PR-26-000264 for the Estate of Joe Lindo. In each petition, the petitioner (who is the personal representative of this estate) alleged that the decedents CLARA and JOE each owned 1/3 of the real property asset that is also the sole asset of this estate. In this estate proceeding, the personal representative alleged that this decedent owned 100% of the subject property. 
It appears to the Probate Examiner that the personal representative may have filed the two related Petitions to Determine Succession anticipatorily, based on the expected inheritance from this estate. It also seems that the personal representative intended or intends to show in this matter that he and his brother MANUEL LINDO are the sole successors-in-interest in the estates of both CLARA and JOE purs. to PrC§13006.
Recommend court hold a hearing and inquire of petitioner what percentage, if any, of the real property each decedent owned at the time of their passing.
Recommend court inquire of petitioner as to the authority under which he seeks a court order distributing the 100% of the real property currently titled to this decedent to the personal representative, when he also seeks a court order determining that the two 1/3 shares of the same real property each owned by CLARA and JOE passes to the personal representative in related cases PR-26-000263 and PR-26-000264.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000263 ESTATE OF CLARA F. LINDO, AKA CLARA FATIMA LINDO
Hearing on Petition to Determine Succession to Primary Residence:
•    Copy of grant deed showing current title was not attached or provided on separate pleading. See Local Rule 8.99.
Recommend court on its own motion take judicial notice of the Petition to Determine Succession filed in case PR-26-000264 for the Estate of Joe Lindo, and the Petition for Final Distribution filed in case PR-24-000547. In the former petition and this one, the petitioner (who is the personal representative of the Estate of ADELAIDE LINDO) alleged that the decedents CLARA and JOE each owned 1/3 of the real property asset that is also the sole asset of this estate. In Estate of ADELAIDE, the personal representative alleged that ADELAIDE decedent owned 100% of the subject property. 
It appears to the Probate Examiner that the personal representative may have filed the two related Petitions to Determine Succession anticipatorily, based on the expected inheritance from Estate of ADELAIDE. It also seems that the personal representative intended or intends to show in this matter that he and his brother MANUEL LINDO are the sole successors-in-interest in the estates of both CLARA and JOE purs. to PrC§13006; the personal representative is not seeking a court order distributing any asset to the estates of CLARA or JOE.
Recommend court hold a hearing and inquire of petitioner what percentage, if any, of the real property each decedent owned at the time of their passing.
Recommend court inquire of petitioner as to the authority under which he seeks a court order distributing the 100% of the real property currently titled to ADELAIDE to the personal representative, when he also seeks a court order determining that the two 1/3 shares of the same real property each owned by CLARA and JOE passes to the personal representative in related cases PR-26-000263 and PR-26-000264.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000264 ESTATE OF JOE A. LINDO, AKA JOE ALBERTO LINDO
Hearing on Petition to Determine Succession to Primary Residence:
•    Copy of grant deed showing current title was not attached or provided on separate pleading. See Local Rule 8.99.
Recommend court on its own motion take judicial notice of the Petition to Determine Succession filed in case PR-26-000263 for the Estate of Clara Lindo, and the Petition for Final Distribution filed in case PR-24-000547. In the former petition and this one, the petitioner (who is the personal representative of the Estate of ADELAIDE LINDO) alleged that the decedents CLARA and JOE each owned 1/3 of the real property asset that is also the sole asset of this estate. In Estate of ADELAIDE, the personal representative alleged that ADELAIDE decedent owned 100% of the subject property. 
It appears to the Probate Examiner that the personal representative may have filed the two related Petitions to Determine Succession anticipatorily, based on the expected inheritance from Estate of ADELAIDE. It also seems that the personal representative intended or intends to show in this matter that he and his brother MANUEL LINDO are the sole successors-in-interest in the estates of both CLARA and JOE purs. to PrC§13006; the personal representative is not seeking a court order distributing any asset to the estates of CLARA or JOE.
Recommend court hold a hearing and inquire of petitioner what percentage, if any, of the real property each decedent owned at the time of their passing.
Recommend court inquire of petitioner as to the authority under which he seeks a court order distributing the 100% of the real property currently titled to ADELAIDE to the personal representative, when he also seeks a court order determining that the two 1/3 shares of the same real property each owned by CLARA and JOE passes to the personal representative in related cases PR-26-000263 and PR-26-000264.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000277 ESTATE OF CATHY GAIL AKERS
Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration:
Recommend approval of petition.
Recommend Inventory Review Hearing 11/12/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.41 B.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000278 ESTATE OF ROBERT BENNETT, AKA ROBERT CECIL BENNETT
Hearing on Petition for Probate of Lost Will and for Letters Testamentary:
• Petition item 8 did not properly label the proposed personal representative (Local Rule 8.26 D).
• Will waives bond for personal representative, however personal representative resides out of state. See PrC§8571. 
      o    Waivers of bond [Form DE-142/DE-111(A-3e)] not on file.  Bond may be required.
• Will is not self-proving per Local Rule 8.23.  Form DE-131 Proof of Subscribing Witness not on file.
• Proposed Order does not have the word “Lost” inserted in item 2c(2) (admission of Will), nor are the terms of the Lost Will attached to the proposed Order.
• Letters, Form DE-150, not yet submitted.
Once defects are cured, please be prepared to inform the court if there are any known California creditors or liabilities of the estate either by declaration or by personal appearance.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000280 ESTATE OF MAX KLEINKNECHT
Hearing on Petition for Probate of Will and for Letters of Administration with Will Annexed:
This appears to be a petition for Re-Administration of the estate pursuant to Probate Code §12252.
Will is self-proving.
Recommend court direct petitioner to file a further verified supplement indicating why subsequent administration is needed.  What is the nature and value of the newly discovered assets?
Recommend court take judicial notice of Superior Court of California, County of Stanislaus case 318810 pursuant to petitioner’s request.
•    Will waived bond only for those named as Executor; petitioner is seeking appointment as Administrator with Will Annexed.
    o    Waivers of bond [Form DE-142/DE-111(A-3e)] not on file.  Bond may be required.  Maximum bond would be $400,000.00
 Examiner notes the sole heirs of this estate are both conservatees. Conservators of the estate do not have power to waive bond. A guardian ad Litem may be necessary.  Bond matter submitted to Judge for determination.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2026
Department 22
8:30 a.m.

PR-21-001327 ESTATE OF ANECIA LEARY
Hearing on Petition for Court Authorization, Determining Good Faith of Settlement continued from 04/22/26:
•    The petition contains report that notice of mediation was filed 12/05/25. Review of that notice reflects the amended notice of mediation was sent 12/05/25 for mediation held on 12/11/25. The Probate Examiner notes that the issue on which mediation was to be held was the Report and Petition filed on 03/26/25 and the Objection thereto filed on 07/01/25; Notice of Hearing and service of a copy of the Report and Petition was not filed until 12/12/25, and it reflects that parties were not served with a copy of the Report and Petition until 12/12/25, the day after mediation was held. 
•    Verification of petitioner appears not to include the date of signature.
•    Updated Note: will need new proposed order with the court’s order from 04/22/26, changing paragraph 6c of the settlement agreement from “objecting beneficiaries” to “other beneficiaries”.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-22-001293 ESTATE OF CYNTHIA MARIE DIAZ-DIAMOND
REVIEW IN PROGRESS. PLEASE CHECK BACK.

PR-23-000887 ESTATE OF EMMANUEL GOMEZ
Account Review Hearing:
See Local Rule 8.82. Neither Petition for Final Distribution nor Second PrC§12200 Status Report are on file.
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 09/16/26 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-23-001116 ESTATE OF JOAN MARLENE GARBERDING
(1)    Order to Show Cause issued 01/22/26 to Sherie Dias:
To appear and explain her failure to appear, failure to file Form DE-295.

(2)    Discharge Review Hearing continued from 10/16/25, 01/22/26:
Receipts of distribution on file [see Pr. Code section 11753(b)].
See Local Rule 8.92 and Judicial Council Form DE-295.
Consider downloading the form from https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/DE-295. 
See Local Rule 8.92. Form DE-295, Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order, not yet submitted at time of review.
It appears personal representative attempted to submit the above pleading but was returned for corrections on 06/27/25 and 08/27/25.
Nothing filed since last hearing. Need status.
Appearance by petitioner (self-represented) required (Anyone appearing may do so in person or remotely, by telephone using VCourt).

PR-24-000711 ESTATE OF BILLY RANDELL JONES, AKA BILLY R. JONES
Account Review Hearing:
Per court’s order of 01/28/26, no Probate Note to be posted, no review by Probate Examiner required. 

Hearing on First and Final Account of Administrator and Petition for 1. Allowance of Compensation to Attorney for Ordinary and Extraordinary Services; 2. Allowance of Compensation to Administrator for Ordinary Services; 3. Approval of Administrator’s Creditor’s Claim; and 4. Final Distribution continued from 01/28/26:
Per court’s order of 01/28/26, no Probate Note to be posted, no review by Probate Examiner required. 

PR-24-001030 ESTATE OF ANN HEDWIG ALBRECHT
(1)    Order to Show Cause issued 09/24/25 to Benjamin D. Harvey, Esq. continued from 01/28/26:
Order to Show Cause will be discharged as a Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.

(2)    Order to Show Cause issued 09/24/25 to Augusta Graves continued from 01/28/26:
Order to Show Cause will be discharged as a Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.

(3)    Inventory Review Hearing continued from 07/10/25, 09/24/25, 01/28/26:
Letters Issued 01/10/25.  Inventory and Appraisal due 04/10/25.
Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.
•    Inventory and Appraisal omits characterization of decedent’s property (community or separate property) [PrC§8850(c)]. This information will be needed prior to the closing of the estate.
Recommend Account Review Hearing 11/12/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.82.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000050 ESTATE OF JENNY LU MCCORD ERICKSON
(1)    Order to Show Cause issued 01/27/26 to Thomas G. Martin, Esq.:
To appear and show cause why sanctions should not be imposed or removal from office for failure to appear and failure to file I&A.

(2)    Inventory Review Hearing continued from 10/07/25, 01/27/26:
Letters Issued 06/27/25.  Inventory and Appraisal due 10/27/25.
Final Inventory and Appraisal not on file. Supplementary I&A file-marked 02/04/26, which appears to be out of sequence. A Corrected I&A appears necessary.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000904 ESTATE OF RICKEY L. FORD, AKA RICKY LEE FORD
Hearing on Petition to Determine Succession to Primary Residence (filed by Adrian Criner) continued from 09/25/25, 01/28/26:
Notes have been cured. No defects in Petition.
Objection filed – 11/25/25 (by Jordan Alexander Ford).  
Objection constitutes a Will contest; Proof of service of Summons not yet on file pursuant to PrC§8250, CCP§415.10 et seq.
On 01/28/26 court directed Objector to do the following or objection may be stricken:
1.    Augment the Objection. File and serve supplemental pleading setting forth facts that serve the basis of his opposition.  Objection filed 04/16/26 (by Jordan Alexander Ford).
2.    Pay filing fees.  Filing fees have been paid.
3.    Perfect notice – Proof of Service of Summons on all interested parties by next hearing date. If not properly served and filed, the objection will be stricken. No further continuance will be provided.  
      o    Proof of service of Summons is on file on interested party Adrian Criner pursuant to PrC§8250, CCP§415.10 et seq. but summons was not issued and served on all other interested parties. Submitted to Judge for Determination.
Appearance by Petitioner (self-represented) and Objector (self-represented) required (Anyone appearing may do so in person, or remotely, by telephone, using VCourt).

PR-25-000981 MATTER OF HAROLD W. STOLL 2009 TRUST
Hearing on Objections to Fiduciary’s Account; Petition for Surcharge Damages for Breach of Fiduciary Duty; for Removal of Trustee; and for Attorney’s Fees and Costs continued from 01/21/26:
No defects in the petition.
Hearing required.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-001305 ESTATE OF CORENA BERNICE BOREN
Hearing on Order to Show Cause issued 01/21/26 to petitioner:
•    To appear and show cause why case should not be dismissed for her failure to appear on 01/21/26 and her failure to cure defects.
•    Recommend court discharge Order to Show Cause based on petitioner’s curing of all prior defects.

Hearing on Amended Petition (file-marked 03/20/26) for Probate of Will and for Letters Testamentary continued from 01/21/26:
Prior Notes have been cured.
Will waives bond for personal representative, however personal representative resides out of state. See PrC§8571. 
Please come to court prepared to discuss the existence of any known California creditors of this estate.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

2200841 ESTATE OF JACINTO CAETANO OLIVEIRA, AKA JACINTO CAETANO DE OLIVEIRA
Hearing on Supplemental Account and Report of Withheld Funds and Petition for Settlement Thereof; Petition for Allowance of Extraordinary Fees; for Distribution of Balance of Withheld Funds; and for Final Discharge of Personal Representative:
Recommend approval of Account and Petition.
Recommend further Discharge Review Hearing 11/19/26.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001312 ESTATE OF NANCY VIRGINIA VILLARREAL, AKA NANCY V. VILLARREAL, AKA NANCY V. ATKINSON
Hearing on First and Final Report of Administrator with Will Annexed on Waiver of Account and Petition for Allowance of Compensation to Attorney for Ordinary and Extraordinary Services and for Final Distribution:
•    Petition requests distributions to three minors for amounts exceeding $20,000.00.  Guardianship of the estate may be necessary.  Petition requests minors’ distributions to be allowed distributed outright to minors’ parents or in the alternative in a blocked account until they reach the age of majority appears to be outside the intent of the Will. 
    o    Submitted to Judge for determination.
•    Petition requests distributions outside of express terms of the Will for four adult beneficiaries, (i.e before they turn 26 years old) but petition has not provided authority for such a request.  
    o    Personal representative may submit points and authorities on this issue if he believes it is statutorily allowed.
    o    Outright distribution in lieu of holding the funds until they reach the identified ages submitted to Judge for determination.
•    Request for Extraordinary fees submitted to Judge for Determination.
•    May need new order reciting the Court’s orders for the minors’ distributions.
•    Need Forms MC-355, Order to Deposit Funds Into Blocked Account, for each minor if the Court grants this request. See Local Rule 8.84B.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-26-000163 ESTATE OF PATRICIA LEGGETT
Hearing Motion to Vacate Order Expunging Lis Pendens:
SEE TENTATIVE RULING, to be posted day prior to hearing at https://www.stanislaus.courts.ca.gov/online-services/tentative-rulings/…

PR-26-000271 ESTATE OF MARGARET ANN MARCHY, AKA MARGARET A. MARCHY
Hearing on Petition for Probate of Will and for Letters Testamentary:
Recommend approval of petition and admission of will to probate.
Recommend Inventory Review Hearing 11/17/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.41 B.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000282 ESTATE OF ROBERT J. LOESER
Hearing on Petition to Determine Succession to Primary Residence:
If no one appears to object, recommend court find notice complete and approve the petition.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-26-000284 ESTATE OF KAREN RENNE COSTA    
Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration:
•    Petition item 8 did not include the proposed personal representative (Local Rule 8.26 D).
•    Form DE-150, Letters, not yet submitted.
•    Waivers of bond [Form DE-142/DE-111(A-3e)] not on file for all intestate heirs (see Probate Code section 6401). Bond may be required. Full bond would be 650,000.00
Recommend continuance to 06/05/26 to allow time to perfect notice.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000290 ESTATE OF JAMES WILLIAM BROCK, JR.
Hearing on Petition to Determine Succession to Primary Residence:
•    Copy of recorded grant deed showing current title was not attached or provided on separate pleading. See Local Rule 8.99. 
    o    Affidavit of Death of Joint Tenant is on file. CRC rule 7.3
•    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 07/10/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000297 ESTATE OF ROBERT L. FINLEY
Hearing on Petition to Determine Succession to Primary Residence:
If no one appears to object, recommend court find notice complete and approve the petition.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-26-000307 MATTER OF DELPHINA C. RUYBAL SEPARATE PROPERTY REVOCABLE TRUST
Hearing on Petition for Order Confirming Assets and to Allocate Debt:
•    Petition paragraph 25 refers to an exhibit that was not attached: 2/2/26 agreement. Please note that the paragraph identified the exhibit as Exhibit D, but there is already an Exhibit D identified in paragraph 15.
•    Notice of Hearing (Form DE-115) not on file. See PrC§851 and CCP§413.10 et seq.
Recommend continuance to 09/01/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).