Tentative Ruling: Estate of Andrew Phillips

Case Number

23PR00382

Case Type

Hearing Date / Time

Wed, 09/23/2026 - 09:30

Nature of Proceedings

Final Distribution

Tentative Ruling

Probate Notes:

The following issues must be addressed by supplement or noted action:

Supplement re: Heir Hunter Fees. The accounting contains disbursements for heir hunters that equal over $60,000 paid without court approval, or review pursuant to Probate Code 11604.  Petitioner must submit supplement as to how and why those fees were paid without court approval.

Supplement re: Further Need of Heir Hunter Services.  It appears from the petition that the Decedent had no issue, nor any person identified to the degree required by Probate Code section 6402. Supplement is required discussing why the Court should not order an heir hunter specializing in Russian citizens to determine the “next of kin” so the estate does not escheat.

If the documents curing these deficiencies are not processed by 8:00 a.m. on September 22, 2026, it is recommended that the matter be continued to a date to be set by the Court at the hearing, unless the party appears and requests a different date, or submits a request for a different continuance date prior to the hearing. (Local Rule 1721(c)(2)(A-B).)  If the matter is continued, documents must be submitted at least 10 days prior to the new hearing date to be considered.

 

Due to staffing limitations, processing times may be delayed. To assist in processing, attorneys and parties should include the next court date in the “Filing Description” field provided by the electronic service provider. That field is also used for further descriptions of the document being e-filed, so be sure to put the calendar date FIRST in the field – BEFORE any further description of the document being e-filed (e.g.: 06/28/16 For XYZ).