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 NOVEMBER 4, 2025
Stanislaus County Superior Court is now recruiting for a full-time Research Attorney. Final filing date is December 3, 2025. To view the job announcement please visit: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/scstanct

POSTED OCTOBER 10, 2025
The proposed revisions to the Local Rules of Court which will take effect January 1, 2026 are now available for download.  The public comment period will close November 17, 2025.

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, NOVEMBER 14, 2025
Department 22
8:30 a.m.

PR-21-000344 ESTATE OF RUDOLPH REYES
Account Review Hearing continued from 11/20/24, 01/08/25, 09/09/25, 10/10/25:

Hearing on Order to Show Cause issued 05/08/25 to the personal representative continued from 09/09/25, 10/10/25:
To appear and show cause why he should not be surcharged and removed as personal representative purs. to Probate Code section 8500 for distributing the estate assets without the authority to do so.
The court will consider making a referral to the Public Administrator as successor personal representative.
Hearing required.
Recommend court on its own motion take judicial notice of the (now dismissed) Petition for Partition file-marked 12/20/22 and the pleading attached as Exhibit “A”.
Exhibit “A” is a recorded Administrator’s Deed recorded 09/22/22 reflecting that Administrator transferred the decedent’s 50% interest in the subject property to each of the three intestate heirs (Petitioner, Respondent, and deceased surviving heir Radella Reyes), as tenants-in-common. 
This appears to have been done without authority – the court has made no order that the Administrator be authorized to distribute any property of this estate, nor does the Administrator appear to have such authority under the Independent Administration of Estates Act.

Counsel representing the personal representative in his capacity as an individual (one of the three intestate heirs) filed a Declaration 11/12/25 with no proof of service attached or filed separately, with a copy of an unrecorded Quitclaim Deed attached, by which instrument two of the three heirs (this personal representative and the administrator of the estate of another deceased heir) grant back to this estate their interest in the real property which was transferred to them by this PR per the 09/22/22 Administrator’s Deed. If a quitclaim has been recorded, any party is invited to file it attached as an exhibit to a verified pleading. 
Without a proof of service, the pleading filed 11/12/25 constitutes ex parte communication. 
Further, there is no action pending in this matter. The personal representative has failed to file a Second PrC§12200 Status Report, failed to report to this court in a verified pleading the actions he has taken, and failed to appear at multiple hearings.
The court will continue the Account Review Hearing and Order to Show Cause to 12/12/25. The personal representative is required to appear in court on 12/12/25 for hearing on the court’s motion for surcharge and removal. The court will direct the clerk of the court to mail copy of the Minute Order directly to the personal representative.

Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred). 

PR-23-000575 HELEN SCHERR REVOCABLE TRUST  
Status Review Hearing on court’s motion to close case:
If no one appears, case will be closed.
No appearance required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001121 MATTER OF MARIA A. GONZALEZ 2016 IRREVOCABLE TRUST
Hearing on Petition to (1) Compel an Account of Trust Assets; (2) to Compel Distribution of Trust Assets continued from 03/05/25, 06/26/25, 11/05/25:
Notice appears complete.
Objection filed – 06/13/25.
Need status of discovery, possible mediation.
Status Report on file.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000138 ESTATE OF WALTER EDWARD CLIFFORD, AKA WALTER CLIFFORD
Bond Review Hearing continued from 10/02/25:
Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.  
Supplemental Bond is on file.
Recommend court set Account Review Hearing for 06/23/26.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000475 ESTATE OF JEFFERY DAVID FENDLEY
Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration continued from 06/11/25, 08/22/25, 09/19/25:
Published notice appears complete.
Prior Note: Please be advised that the heading of multiple pleadings filed by petitioner have not reflected the correct address for this court, including those giving notice of hearings. 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. Please take care when providing notice that it reflects the correct addresses. 
Mailed notice had been complete on 09/19/25, but the petitioner has given new notice by mail (Form DE-121) file-marked 11/03/25 with the wrong court address in the header, giving notice to all interested parties that this hearing would be held at 1100 I Street instead of 801 10th Street, Modesto. 
Recommend court admonish petitioner’s counsel to use the correct court address in the future. 
Recommend approval of petition.
Recommend Inventory Review Hearing 05/14/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.41 B.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000637 ESTATE OF JOSE MIGUEL CABRERA MURALLES
Hearing on Amended Petition (file marked 09/08/25) for Letters of Administration continued from 08/21/25, 09/19/25:
Prior notes have been cured.
Recommend approval of amended petition.
Recommend Inventory Review Hearing 05/14/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.41 B.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000702 ESTATE OF MONICA MELENDEZ
Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration continued from 08/21/25, 10/01/25:
Nothing filed since last hearing. Prior notes remain:
• Form DE-111, Petition for Probate, has the following defects:
      o    Authorization to Administer Under the Independent Administration of Estates Act box not checked.
      o    Item 2(d)(3) omitted proposed amount to be deposited in blocked account. Petition seeks no bond.  The petition alleges personal property estimated at $00.00.
      o    Item 8 did not include the proposed personal representatives (Local Rule 8.26 D).
      o    Item 8 did not include ages of all relatives listed.
See California Rules of Court rules 7.3 and 7.53 regarding the types of forms that may be used to address the above defects.
• Form DE-121, Notice of Petition to Administer Estate, file marked 07/10/25 has the following defects:
      o    Item 1 recites an “fka” for decedent that is not reflected on petition. 
      o    Proof of service, page 2 recites an heir that does not match name on petition: specifically, Talina Melendez.
• Form DE-147, Duties and Liabilities, not on file.
• Form DE-140, Proposed Order, not submitted.
• Form DE-150, Letters, not submitted.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000855 ESTATE OF KELLY MONK
Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration continued from 09/18/25:
Prior Notes have been cured.
Recommend approval of petition as supplemented.
•    Need Form DE-140, Proposed Order.
Recommend Inventory Review Hearing 05/14/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.41 B.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000857 ESTATE OF MELODY JEAN BURNS, AKA MELODY J. BURNS, MELODY BURNS
Hearing on Amended Petition (file-marked 11/10/25) for Probate of Will and for Letters Testamentary continued from 09/18/25:
• Republication is necessary pursuant to CRC 7.53(a) as an Amended Petition was filed.
      o    Please note that the original affidavit of publication was defective: omitted the request to admit decedent’s will.
• A new Notice of Petition to Administer Estate is necessary pursuant to CRC 7.53(a) as an Amended Petition was filed.
• There is insufficient information in court's file to determine if notice is adequate under PrC§§1208b, 15804. Need copy of trust.
Recommend continuance to 01/09/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000859 ESTATE OF WILLA DEAN HEMINGWAY
Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration continued from 09/18/25:
•    Per Supplement file-marked 09/18/25, decedent’s spouse died after the decedent, and the surviving spouse’s estate is going through probate in this county. The Supplement did not identify the name and address of the personal representative of that estate. Notice of this petition is on file for the attorney representing the personal representative of that estate but not on file for the personal representative herself. Notice purs. to PrC§§8100 et seq. therefore appears incomplete. See Local Rule 8.14 A, CRC Rules 7.51(e) and (b), PrC§1214.
•    Waivers of bond on file from intestate heirs, however the proposed personal representative resides out of state. See PrC§8571. Bond may be required at the court’s discretion. This will be submitted to court for determination once other notes are cured.
Recommend continuance to 01/07/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2025
Department 21
8:30 a.m.

PR-23-001234 MICHAEL C. MUELLER TRUST
Settlement Conference:
Appearances mandatory (by VCourt if preferred).

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2025
Department 22
8:30 a.m.

PR-22-000875 ESTATE OF J. JESUS JIMENEZ
Hearing on Order to Show Cause issued 07/31/25 to personal representative:
To appear and show cause why sanctions/surcharge should not be imposed for failing to appear on 07/31/25.

Hearing on Order to Show Cause issued 07/31/25 to personal representative’s counsel:
To appear and show cause why sanctions/surcharge should not be imposed for failing to appear on 07/31/25.

Hearing on Petition and Report on Waiver of Account for Final Settlement, for Waiver of Statutory Commission, for Allowance of Statutory Attorney Fees, and for Final Distribution continued from 07/31/25:
Nothing filed since previous hearing. Prior Notes remain:
• Petition was not verified (see California Rule of Court 7.103, California Code of Civil Procedure sections 2015.5, 446).
• Itemization of costs of administration was omitted (see Local Rules 8.69, 8.83K).
• Statement regarding family/affiliate relationship omitted [see PrC§1064(a)(4)].
• Report paragraph 9 did not appear to comply with PrC§9202(b) (“is or has previously been confined”). See also PrC§216, Local Rule 8.83 F.
• Petitioner alleged an accounting is not required (Report paragraph 13). This is incorrect; an accounting is required even when the sole asset of the estate is real property. Please see PrC§§11000, 10954, Local Rules 8.69 and 8.65, and a California Decedent’s Estate Practice Guide.
• Request to distribute the real property to the heirs as joint tenants does not appear allowable, as they will not hold title in equal shares (see Civil Code §§ 683, 685). Tenancy-in-common appears mandated, unless the heirs agree to a different distribution. See Local Rule 8.87.
      o    Prayer did not include the proposed distribution.
• Legal description of the real property omitted. See CRC rule 7.651(B)(3).
• It appears that there is insufficient liquidity in the estate to pay attorney’s compensation and costs. Please clarify how fees will be paid.
• Notice of Hearing not on file (PrC §§ 10830, 11000, 11601).
On 07/31/25, the court ordered the personal representative to EITHER obtain and file notarized waivers of account from all the intestate heirs purs. to Local Rules 8.69 and 8.65, OR prepare, sign and verify, file, and then provide of notice of hearing on an Amended Petition and Report to include a first and final accounting pursuant to PrC§§11000, 10954. Not on file.

Appearance by personal representative and counsel mandatory (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000120 ESTATE OF CAMILLA CANTU GARCIA, AKA CAMILLA C. GARCIA, CAMILLA GARCIA
(1)    Order to Show Cause issued 06/24/25 to Christina Garcia continued from 08/13/25:
To appear and show cause for failure to appear at 06/24/25 hearing and failure to file Petition for Final Distribution or Second PrC §12200 Status Report as directed.

(2)    Account Review Hearing continued from 02/19/25, 06/24/25, 08/13/25:
• It appears that the administrator’s mailing address may have changed.
      o    Administrator has not updated the court file with a new mailing or physical address. This form is available for download online here: https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/MC-040 
Petition for Final Distribution has been filed and set for hearing on 01/07/26.
Hearing of 01/07/26 will be confirmed.
Appearance by administrator and counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000936 ESTATE OF SHARON LEE WYNNE 
(1)    Order to Show Cause issued 02/20/25 to Jered Latta and continued from 06/24/25, 08/13/25:
To appear and show cause for failing to appear, failing to file a verified report as directed and failure to perfect Notice.  
Failure to appear and file documents prior to the next hearing may result in sanctions and possible removal from office.

(2)    Hearing on Amended PrC§12200 Status Report of Administration (file marked 10/22/25) continued from 02/20/25, 06/24/25, 08/13/25:
Prior defects cured.

(3)    Hearing on Petition to Remove Personal Representative continued from 08/13/25:
Pursuant to a Notice of Withdrawal of Petition filed (file marked 10/22/25) the Court will drop this hearing.

Appearance by County Counsel and Administrator’s counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000033 ESTATE OF MARCILLA ELIZABETH BERRY, AKA MARCILLA BERRY
Hearing on First and Final Account and Report of Administrator and Petition for its Settlement, for Allowance of Statutory Compensation to Administrator and Attorney, and for Final Distribution:
• It appears that there is insufficient liquidity in the estate to pay attorney’s compensation and costs. Please clarify how fees and costs will be paid.
• Probate fee base was not included in the calculation of statutory compensation (Exhibit B).
• Proposed compensation to the co-personal representatives did not specify the apportionment/division of compensation: CRC 7.704(a), notice CRC 7.704(b). 
• Description of assets on hand omitted legal description of real property as required by CRC 7.651(b)(3) (Exhibits 1 and 3).
• Schedule of proposed distribution omitted legal description and assessor’s parcel number of real property as required by CRC 7.651(b)(3).
• Schedule of proposed distribution does not specify how the property is to be distributed. Is each asset to be distributed one-half to one heir and one-half to the other? Please be explicit. Please also specify the manner of vesting title of the real property, e.g., “50% to each as their separate property, as tenants in common”.
• Petition paragraph 9 does not appear correct. Waivers of Accounting are not on file (see PrC§10954, Local Rule 8.69). Did/do the personal representatives, as sole heirs, waive an accounting pursuant to their signatures on the present pleading?
• A supplement appears necessary as a Corrected Final Inventory and Appraisal was filed.
• Proposed Order submitted 07/29/25:
      o    Did not include finding regarding notice. See PrC§1260.
      o    Omitted the legal description and assessor’s parcel number of real property.
      o    Did not specify how the property is to be distributed. Is each asset to be distributed one-half to one heir and one-half to the other? Please be explicit. 
      o    Please also specify the manner of vesting title of the real property, e.g., as tenants in common.
      o    Paragraph 8 on page 5 appears to end in an incomplete sentence.
Recommend continuance to 03/17/26, to coincide with Account Review Hearing already set, to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000770 ESTATE OF JOYCE L. KESLER
Hearing on Amended (file marked 10/24/25) First and Final Account; Report of Administration; Allowance of Compensation to Attorney for Ordinary Services; Allowance of Compensation to Administrator for Ordinary Services; Request for Reimbursement to Attorney; Request for Reimbursement to Administrator; and Petition for Final Distribution continued from 06/26/25:
Prior defects cured.
Recommend approval of petition.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 05/21/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-24-000959 ESTATE OF GERI LYNN ROTHSTEIN, AKA GERI ROTHSTEIN
Hearing on Order to Show Cause issued 0813/25 to personal representative:
To appear and show cause why sanctions/surcharge should not be imposed and/or the personal representative suspended from office for failing to appear on 08/13/25, failing to abide by the court’s order (to file a Final Inventory and Appraisal).
Recommend court discharge the Order to Show Cause and admonish executor regarding court appearances and Probate Notes.

Inventory Review Hearing continued from 04/09/25, 08/13/25:
Corrected Final Inventory and Appraisal on file. 
See Local Rule 8.82 and also Probate Code sections 12200, and 9000 through 9399. Neither Petition for Final Distribution nor 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, including on unpaid creditors purs. to PrC§48) within 90 days if estate is not in a position to be closed.
Appearance by Executor (self-represented) mandatory (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001062 ESTATE OF COLEEN WALLEN
Inventory Review Hearing continued from 05/08/25, 09/04/25:
Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.
The I&A was not appraised by the probate referee.  Recommend court inquire the following: is the amount for a survivor’s cause of action/personal injury, a wrongful death cause of action or a combination of both? 
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001143 MATTER OF ARHONTES FAMILY TRUST DTD SEPTEMBER 27, 2000   
2. Hearing on Petitioner’s Objection to Respondent’s 2024 Accountings and Petition Concerning the Internal Affairs of the Trust, for Breach of Trust, for Removal of Co-Trustees, and for Redress of Trust:
•    Note for Respondents/co-Trustees: Exhibit C (a copy of the 2022 accounting) is not legible. The court previously ordered the Trustee to file and serve a legible copy of that document on all interested parties (Minute Order of 07/02/25).
•    Note for Petitioner: Exhibit H (referenced page 6 line 22) was not attached to the petition.
•    Note for Petitioner: Although the pleading references an Exhibit H (referenced page 6 line 22), there appears to be no reference to an Exhibit G.

1.    Hearing on Petitioner’s Objection to Respondent’s 2023 Accounting and Petition Concerning the Internal Affairs of the Trust, for Breach of Trust, for Removal of Co-Trustees, and for Redress of Trust reset pursuant to court’s order file-marked 03/14/25 and continued from 07/02/25:
Notice appears complete.
On 07/02/25 the court ordered co-Trustees to file and serve a legible copy of two documents including the 2022 accounting attached to the 10/23/24 Petition as Exhibit C. Copy of the 2022 accounting, ending 12/31/22, not on file.

Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001191 MATTER OF LIVING TRUST OF ORALIA E. BAUTISTA
1.    Hearing on Order to Show Cause issued 07/16/25 to Objector/competing petitioner’s counsel:
Objector/competing petitioner to appear and show cause why the combined Objection and Petition (file-marked 05/01/25) should not be stricken with fifteen (15) days’ leave to amend. [Cf. Katzenstein v. Chabad of Poway (2015) 237 Cal.App.4th 759, 766; Code Civ. Proc., § 431.30(c)].

Court set deadline for any brief in opposition to the OSC to be filed and served at least fourteen (14) days before the continued hearing date. Any brief in response to an opposition to be filed and served at least seven (7) days before the continued hearing date. No briefs on file as of 11/10/25.

2.    Hearing on Petition for Order Determining Trust’s Title to Personal Property continued from 03/18/25, 07/16/25:

Objection filed – 05/01/25. Objection includes a separate cause of action: request for court order invalidating the trust instrument (trust contest). 
•    There has been no petition set for hearing purs. to PrC§17200 et seq. and notice of hearing has not been provided purs. to PrC§17203.

Trailing hearing on order to show cause.

Appearance by counsel for Objector mandatory; appearance by petitioner (self-represented) required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000049 ESTATE OF ROBERT SHAWN HENSHAW
2. Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration (filed by Shelby Jones) continued from 04/15/25, 08/26/25:
Notice of withdrawal on file – filed 09/25/25.
Recommend court dismiss this petition.

1.    Hearing on Amended Petition (file-marked 03/27/25) for Letters of Administration (filed by Kimberly Parker) continued from 03/06/25, 04/15/25, 08/26/25:
Prior Notes have been cured.
Petitioner seeks full bond of $340,500.00, which appears adequate based on the estimated value of the estate described in the Amended Petition.
Recommend approval of petition, and proposed bond of $340,500.00.
Recommend Inventory Review Hearing 05/19/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.41 B.

Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000459 MATTER OF OLDSON FAMILY TRUST
Hearing on Petition for 1. Internal Affairs of a Trust and Contest of Accounting; 2. Breach of Fiduciary Duties by Former Trustee; 3. Surcharge of Former Trustee; 4. Elder Financial Abuse; 5. Attorney’s Fees continued from 09/04/25:
Nothing filed since previous hearing. Prior Notes remain:
•    Body of Petition omitted the names and mailing addresses of those entitled to notice (PrC§§17201, 15804).
•    Notice of Hearing not on file. See PrC§§172003 et seq., 15804.
•    Proposed Order not yet submitted.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000815 ESTATE OF TINA MARIE MITSCHELEN
Hearing on Petition for Appointment of Guardian ad Litem continued from 09/11/25:
Prior Notes have been cured. Notice appears complete.
The court will direct the petitioner to file a Confidential Capacity Assessment and Declaration (Form GC-335), with Everyday Activities Attachment (Form GC-335A), and Confidential Declaration on Medical Ability to Attend Hearing (Form GC-325) as to the person for whom a GAL is sought. 
If petitioner requires additional time to file these pleadings, they may file a Declaration to that effect before the next hearing.

Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration continued from 09/11/25:
Prior Notes have been cured.
Trailing: petitioner’s request that bond not be required and court order “any cash received be deposited into the client trust account” and that “any withdrawals must be authorized by this court and receipts will be filed with the court”.

Both matters will be continued to 01/23/26 to allow time to file above pleadings as will be directed.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000841 ESTATE OF DANIEL R. HUTSELL, AKA DANIEL RICHARD HUTSELL
Hearing on Petition for Letters of Administration continued from 09/17/25, 10/24/25:
Prior Notes have been cured.
Recommend approval of petition, with bond set at $378,000.00 as pled.
Recommend Inventory Review Hearing 05/19/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.41 B.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

2200342 THE VELMA L. BRISTOW TESTAMENTARY TRUST
Hearing on Fourth Account and Report; Request for Allowance of Attorney Fees and Trustee Fees:
•    Notice to remainder beneficiaries not on file [PrC§15804(a)].
•    Schedules A-1 and A-2 contain foot notes explaining unusual account activity. Please note, pursuant to Probate Code §1064, unusual items should be included in the report itself (not included in a footnote of a schedule).  Please further explain how the trust will be made whole.
•    The report did not identify if the current bond amount is sufficient and omitted a request for bond increase/decrease.  When submitting a bond increase or decrease, please itemize the annual income and recovery costs for the court’s verification.  See CRC rule 7.207.
See California Rules of Court rules 7.3 and 7.53 regarding the types of forms that may be used to address these defects.
Recommend continuance to 04/01/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-001140 ESTATE OF JAKE ALLEN ELZENGA, AKA JAKE ELZENGA, JR.
Hearing on Report of Administrator on Waiver of Account and Petition for Allowance of Statutory Compensation to Administrator and Attorney for Ordinary Services, for costs of Administration, Reserve for Closing Expenses and for Final Distribution:
Recommend approval of petition.
Recommend Discharge Review Hearing 05/21/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.92.
Recommend court vacate Account Review Hearing 01/15/26.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000447 ESTATE OF BRIAN CHARLES JACKSON, AKA BRIAN C. JACKSON, BRIAN JACKSON
Hearing on First and Final Report on Waivers of Account and Petition for its Approval; Petition for Order of Final Distribution; and for Allowance of Payment of Statutory Fees; and Reimbursement of Costs Advanced:
Notice of Hearing not on file (PrC §§ 10830, 11000, 11601).
Notarized Waiver of Accounting not on file from heir Dale Jackson.
A Supplemental Inventory and Appraisal is not on file as alleged in paragraph 10 of the Report. 
Proposed Order not yet submitted.
Recommend continuance to 01/30/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

ADD-ON
258593 ESTATE OF WILLIAM BERRY
Hearing on Ex Parte Petition for Order Amending Prior Order by Adding Legal Description:
A proof of service of the petition was attached to the petition; a Declaration regarding notice not yet on file. See Local Rule 8.35 and California Rules of Court rules 3.1200 et seq.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2025
Department 22
8:30 a.m.

PR-23-000531 ESTATE OF RAMESH CHAND
Inventory Review Hearing continued from 02/11/25, 06/05/25, 06/12/25:
Bond rider is on file.
Recommend Account Review Hearing 04/16/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.82. See also PrC§12200.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000964 ESTATE OF DIANA HERNANDEZ
(1)    Order to Show Cause issued 10/28/25 to Phillip Campbell, Esq.:
To appear and show cause for failing to appear at 10/28/25 hearing and failing to file PrC §12200 Status Report as directed.

(2)    Order to Show Cause issued 10/28/25 to Jacquelyn Hernandez:
To appear and show cause for failing to appear at 10/28/25 hearing and failing to file PrC §12200 Status Report as directed.  Failure to file a PrC §12200 Status Report by next hearing may result in removal from office.
On 10/28/25 the court:
Suspended personal representative from office pursuant to PrC§8500.

(3)    Account Review Hearing continued from 07/09/25, 10/28/25:
On 10/28/25, court ordered counsel for personal representative to file an account or will result in contempt. 
•    Neither Petition for Final Distribution/First Account Current nor (Second) PrC§12200 Status Report are on file at the time of review.  See Local Rule 8.82. 
Nothing filed since last hearing.
Appearance by Administrator and Administrator’s counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).
 

PR-24-000593 ESTATE OF VIVIAN ELIZABETH WHEELAND, AKA VIVIAN ELIZABETH PETRA OLSON
Inventory Review Hearing continued from 02/06/25, 06/17/25:
Nothing filed since previous hearing. Prior Notes remain:
Letters Issued 08/09/24.  Inventory and Appraisal (I&A) was due 12/09/24.
•    On 02/06/25, the court ordered the I&A be filed within thirty days. 
•    On 06/17/25, the court ordered the I&A be filed within sixty days.
Recommend court order personal representative to file a PrC§12200 Status Report (with Notice pursuant to PrC§12201) within thirty (30) days, to include a statement explaining her failure to file the Inventory and Appraisal. 
Recommend court set Account Review Hearing 01/15/25.
Recommend court issue Order to Show Cause to the personal representative to personally appear at the next hearing, and order that if a PrC§12200 Status Report is filed before the next hearing, the Order to Show Cause may be discharged. Should the personal representative fail to appear at the next hearing and fail to file a PrC§12200 Status Report, the court may issue surcharge, suspend the personal representative from office, or remove her from office. See Probate Code 8500 et seq.
Appearance by personal representative (self-represented) mandatory. Anyone appearing at this hearing may do so either in person or by telephone, by VCourt, if preferred.

PR-24-000838 ESTATE OF TYRONE RAYMOND KNELLER, JR.
Account Review Hearing:
Petition for Final Distribution has been filed and set for hearing on 01/22/26.
Hearing of 01/22/26 will be confirmed.
On 03/12/25, the court directed Administrators to file a corrected Inventory and Appraisal.  Corrected Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000884 ESTATE OF JOSEPH PLANT, AKA JOSEPH EDWARD PLANT, AKA JOSEPH E. PLANT
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 03/25/26 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-24-001104 ESTATE OF JACK ELDON STEVER, AKA JACK E. STEVER
Inventory Review Hearing:
Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.
•    Inventory and Appraisal omits characterization of decedent’s property [PrC§8850(c)]. This information will be needed prior to the closing of the estate.
Recommend Account Review Hearing 07/21/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.82.
Appearance not required. (Anyone wishing to appear may do so in person or remotely, by telephone, using VCourt).

PR-25-000083 MATTER OF DONALD LARRY LILLEGARD AND DENISE LOUISE LILLEGARD 2002 TRUST
Hearing on First Amended Petition (file-marked 06/11/25) to Compel Account or Report continued from 06/04/25:
Objection filed – 10/31/25, by Respondent/Trustee.
Hearing required.
Appearance by petitioner (self-represented) and respondent’s counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000246 ESTATE OF JOHN RALPH GRANT, SR., AKA JOHN RALPH GRANT, AKA JOHN GRANT
Inventory Review Hearing:
Letters Issued 05/23/25.  Inventory and Appraisal due 09/23/25.
Inventory and Appraisal not on file at time of review.
Recommend continuance to 03/12/26 to allow time to file above pleading.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-25-000336 ESTATE OF RICHARD DOUGLAS GARFIELD
Inventory Review Hearing:
Final Inventory and Appraisal is on file.
Recommend Account Review Hearing 07/21/26 pursuant to Local Rule 8.82.
Appearance not required. (Anyone wishing to appear may do so in person or remotely, by telephone, using VCourt).

PR-25-000341 ESTATE OF JACKIE FIELD
Inventory Review Hearing:
Letters issued 05/20/25. Inventory and Appraisal due 09/22/25.
Final Inventory and Appraisal not on file.
Recommend court compel Personal Representative to file the Final Inventory and Appraisal pursuant to Probate Code § 8804 or face possible sanctions including removal from office.
Appearance by Personal Representative and counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000165 ESTATE OF TONY J. FRANCO
Hearing on First and Final Account; Report of Administration; Allowance of Compensation to Administrator for Ordinary Services; Allowance of Compensation to Attorney for Ordinary Services; Allowance of Reimbursement to Attorney for Expenses; Allowance of Reimbursement to Administrator for Costs Advanced; and Petition for Final Distribution:
REVIEW IN PROGRESS. PLEASE CHECK BACK.

PR-24-000587 ESTATE OF ANNE LANGFORD, AKA ANNIE IRENE LANGFORD
Hearing on First and Final Report of Administrator on Waiver of Account and Petition for Final Distribution and for Statutory Fees to Administrator and Attorneys and Reimbursement of Costs:
Waivers of Accounting do not bear notary’s acknowledgement (Local Rule 8.69).
Recommend continuance to 01/16/26 to allow time to cure defect.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000661 ESTATE OF ALEX ABBLEY
Hearing on First and Final Account and Report of Administrator, Determine Entitlement to Distribution Including Determination of Property as Community Property, Petition for Allowance of Statutory Fees and Reimbursement of Costs to Attorney and Final Distribution:
In future matters, please ensure the pleading title is specific as to whether compensation is sought for the personal representative or counsel or both.
• Statement regarding family/affiliate relationship omitted [see PrC§1064(a)(4)].
• Attachment 5 (invoice for costs) includes mailing and postage, which are considered a cost of doing business and are not reimbursable.
• It appears that there is insufficient liquidity in the estate to pay attorney’s compensation and costs. Please clarify how fees and costs will be paid.
• This is the first pleading to have been filed in this matter reflecting that any part of this estate was community property; a corrected Inventory and Appraisal is not on file as alleged in the pleading titled “Response to Calendar Notes” file-marked 11/12/25.
• The decedent’s surviving spouse has not filed a (late) election to administer the alleged community property. See PrC§13502. 
• Petitioner’s argument re: entitlement petition: 
      o    What was the source of the funds used for the down payment on the real property in 2008?
      o    Please see Local Rule 8.98 B and provide as many of the included allegations as are relevant for the court considering this petition.
• The proposed omnibus clause does not appear correct. The decedent died without a will and so all separate property not now known would pass by intestate succession. See PrC§6400 et seq.
Recommend continuance to 03/18/26 to allow time to cure defects.
Recommend court vacate Account Review Hearing of 04/01/26.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-001246 ESTATE OF WILHELMINA ANN SOUZA AKA WILHELMINA A. SOUZA
Hearing on Objectors’ Motion for Sanctions against Petitioner Darrell Souza and his Attorneys:
SEE TENTATIVE RULING, to be posted day prior to hearing at https://www.stanislaus.courts.ca.gov/online-services/tentative-rulings/…

PR-25-000712 JAMES & CAROL EVALINE JUDD LIVING TRUST DTD FEBRUARY 2, 1996
Hearing on Verified Petition for Order Determining Trust’s Title to Real Property (Probate Code §850):
•    Need new proposed order.  Face page omitted attorney information.  See CRC rule 2.111(1).  Please also complete hearing date, time and judicial officer.   
If no one appears to object, Recommend approval of petition.
Appearance not required unless language in the corrected proposed order indicates an appearance was made (by VCourt if preferred).
 

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2025
Department 22 
8:30 a.m.

2201420 ESTATE OF JOHN ALLEN BARNES
Discharge Review Hearing continued from 02/27/25, 08/26/25:
Receipts on distribution on file for partial distribution on retains.
Prior order approving accounting on retains and partial distribution was filed 06/13/24.
See Local Rule 8.68. Form DE-295, Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order, and Supplemental Declaration setting forth the disposition of the reserve not yet submitted.
Need status.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-21-001397 ESTATE OF WILLIAM U. HESS, AKA WILLIAM ULYSSES HESS
Discharge Review Hearing continued from 05/01/25:
Nothing filed in eighteen months. The court issued its order for final distribution 09/24/24. 
The personal representative has failed to file receipts of distribution in the fourteen months since the court’s order for final distribution.
Appearance by personal representative and counsel mandatory (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-22-000849 ESTATE OF DONALD FRANK WILTON
Discharge Review Hearing:
All three of the allowed claims have been withdrawn or acknowledged as satisfied. 
Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order not yet submitted.
Recommend continuance to 04/30/26 to allow time for above pleading to be filed.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000473 ESTATE OF JOAQUIN LOPEZ
Discharge Review Hearing:
Receipts of distribution not on file.
Recommend continuance to 04/23/26 to allow time for filing of receipts.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000479 ESTATE OF ESPARANZA VARGAS
Discharge Review Hearing:
Withdrawal of creditor’s claim or in the alternative an acknowledgement of satisfaction or signed receipt from the Creditor reflecting payment of the amount as ordered by the court in the Order for Final Distribution file-marked 05/16/25 not on file.
Recommend continuance to 04/23/26 to allow time for filing of above pleading.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-23-000902 ESTATE OF CHARMAINE KAY KAMRAR, AKA CHARMAINE K. KAMRAR, CHARMAINE KAMRAR
Discharge Review Hearing continued from 05/01/25:
Receipts on distribution are on file.
See Local Rule 8.92. Form DE-295, Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order, not yet submitted at time of review.
Need status.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred)

PR-24-000282 ESTATE OF ELIZABETH C. ESQUIVEL
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 04/01/26 to allow time for filing of above pleadings. 
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000286 ESTATE OF PRADEEP SINGH
Discharge Review Hearing continued from 09/18/25:
One of two Receipts on Distribution is on file.
Form DE-295, Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order, not yet submitted.
Pursuant to a declaration filed by administrator, Recommend continuance to 04/30/26 to allow time to file the above pleadings.
Appearance not required (by VCourt if preferred).

PR-24-000798 ESTATE OF MELVA JEAN JORDAN
Discharge Review Hearing:
Receipts on distribution are on file.
See Local Rule 8.92. Form DE-295, Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order, not yet submitted at time of review.
Recommend continuance to 03/19/26 to allow time to file the above pleading.
Appearance by counsel required (by VCourt if preferred)

PR-23-001317 ESTATE OF MARY LOU PACHECO
Hearing on Petition for Settlement of First and Final Account and Final Distribution, Waiver of Accounting, Waiver of Compensation to Executor and Allowance of Compensation to Attorney:
REVIEW IN PROGRESS. PLEASE CHECK BACK.

PR-24-000869 ESTATE OF CAROL CALVIN, AKA CAROL EVELYN CALVIN, CAROL E. WEAST
Hearing on First and Final Account and Report of Administrator and Petition for its Settlement and for Allowance of Statutory Commissions and Fees and for Final Distribution:
In future matters, please ensure the pleading title is specific as to whether compensation is sought for the Public Administrator or counsel or both.
REVIEW IN PROGRESS. PLEASE CHECK BACK.

PR-25-000171 ESTATE OF JESSICA S. EVERS, AKA JESSICA SARAH EVERS
Hearing on First and Final Report of Administrator on Waiver of Account and Petition for Allowance of Statutory Compensation to Attorney, and for Final Distribution: 
REVIEW IN PROGRESS. PLEASE CHECK BACK.

PR-25-000725 MATTER OF MOSS 2001 REVOCABLE TRUST
Hearing on Petition for an Order to Recover Real Property Belonging to the Trust and Request for Double Damages and Attorney’s Fees:
REVIEW IN PROGRESS. PLEASE CHECK BACK.

PR-21-000804 ESTATE OF ROGER C. MULLER, AKA ROGER CHARLES MULLER
Discharge Review Hearing:
Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order has been submitted and is recommended for approval.
Hearing will vacate.
No appearances.

PR-22-000116 ESTATE OF KIETH THOMAS KOCH
Discharge Review Hearing:
Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order has been submitted and approved.
Hearing has been vacated.

PR-24-000025 ESTATE OF DOROTHY EVA FERGEL, AKA DOROTHY FERGEL
Discharge Review Hearing:
Ex Parte Petition for Final Discharge and Order has been submitted and is recommended for approval.
Hearing will vacate.
No appearances.