I am so sorry for your loss.  Yes, there is no law that requires you to hire an attorney for probate in CA. It is just suggested to help you with the intricacies that they are familiar with.  I will give you a few links.  One of you has to be appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to transfer the property to all of you via Executor's Deed.  I would strongly suggest that you ask an attorney to prepare the deed (possibly on a flat rate fee) and help with the filing. California has a simplified process for the trasnfer of land worth under a certain amount ($20,000 to $150,000).  Good luck.http://www.courts.ca.gov/10440.htmhttp://www.courts.ca.gov/8865.htmhttp://www.scscourt.org/self_help/probate/property/probate_overview.shtml