A: You will usually not need to appear at hearings. Most courts in California use a tentative ruling system. This means that in the days before the hearing on a petition, the court will post its intended ruling on the petition. If the tentative ruling is to grant the petition and no objection is received, the court will grant the petition at the hearing and there is no need to personally appear. For probate hearings, we often see favorable tentative rulings, and appearances are not required. If an appearance is required, usually only your attorney will need to appear. If you do need to appear, your attorney will guide you through that process.
Q: If I am petitioning the court to become appointed the Executor, will I need to personally appear at any hearings?
