Last verified 2026-07-20; facts checked against the primary sources below

How probate works in Napa County

Last verified: July 20, 2026

The short answer: Napa probate is handled at the Historic Courthouse, 825 Brown Street, Napa, CA 94559. The Probate/Civil line is (707) 299-1130. Filing windows are open 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., including noon; a same-day drop box remains available until 5:00 p.m. E-filing is accepted but not described as mandatory for probate.

Routine probate shares the civil law-and-motion calendar Tuesday through Thursday at 8:30 a.m. in Departments A and B, assigned by the final digit of the case number. Tentative rulings post by 3:00 p.m. the prior court day.

Napa County probate at a glance

Filing and original documents

Napa accepts e-filed, mailed, and in-person probate papers. The Guide & File system also assists with selected filings. Redaction remains the filer's responsibility.

The original will needs physical lodging even if a petition is sent electronically. Probate Code section 8200 generally requires delivery within 30 days after the custodian learns of death. Preserve it intact and confirm the clerk's case-matching procedure.

Calendar and tentative rulings

Cases ending in an even number go to Department A; odd numbers go to Department B. Weeks with Monday or Monday-and-Tuesday court closures have reduced calendar days, so verify the actual date rather than assuming a Tuesday setting.

Read the tentative after 3:00 p.m. If it approves the routine unopposed matter and does not require appearance, no appearance is generally needed. To request oral argument, notify all parties and call (707) 299-1270 or email [email protected] by 4:00 p.m. If no ruling posts, appear.

Remote appearance, forms, and fees

Napa's tentative page links to hearing-specific audio/video instructions. Remote attendance does not replace the 4:00 p.m. notice required to argue. No generally mandatory Napa local estate-opening form or county probate surcharge was identified. E-filing provider costs, publication, copies, and private reporting can add expense; the court does not provide reporting for ordinary civil law-and-motion matters.

Napa County's practical checklist:

• File at the Historic Courthouse or electronically.
• Lodge the original will on paper.
• Use the case number's last digit to identify Department A or B.
• Check holiday adjustments and the 3:00 p.m. tentative.
• Give court and party notice by 4:00 p.m. to argue.
• Follow hearing-specific remote instructions rather than assuming a standing link.

Court procedures change; verify filing and hearing details with Napa County Superior Court before acting.