Probate in District of Columbia, handled for you
The District of Columbia settles estates through the Superior Court, Probate Division. D.C. follows the Uniform Probate Code, offering informal and formal probate tracks. A small-estate affidavit is available for estates under $40,000. Kindred handles the administration for one flat fee.
District of Columbia lets you handle an uncontested probate without a lawyer. D.C. allows a personal representative to handle probate without an attorney under the Uniform Probate Code. Kindred handles the administrative work; if a formal or contested proceeding arises, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing.
The four things families ask first
Hourly / flat fee
Read moreA typical D.
Read more$40,000
Read moreSuperior Court of the District of Columbia, Probate Division
What it could cost in District of Columbia
≈ 45 hours of admin and legal work, all billed at lawyer rates.
Kindred + your attorney
Estimated difference vs. a full-service firm
$5,500
+ about 150 hours of your own time
Full-service estimated at $250–$400/hr for ~45hours; the attorney figure is an illustrative fixed fee. Illustrative only — not a quote or legal advice. Figures vary by estate. We're not a law firm; an independent attorney always handles the legal work.
Frequently asked
Do I need a lawyer for probate in D.C.?
No — D.C. follows the Uniform Probate Code, which allows a personal representative to handle probate without an attorney. Kindred handles the administrative work for a flat fee. If a dispute arises, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing. Kindred is not a law firm.
How much does probate cost in D.C.?
No statutory percentage fee — attorneys typically bill $300-$500/hour or a flat fee. Filing fees run about $150-$250. Estates under $40,000 can use a small-estate affidavit. These are illustrative figures.
How long does probate take in D.C.?
Typically 9 to 15 months. Creditors have 6 months from publication of notice to file claims. An inventory is due within 90 days of appointment.
Last verified July 2026. Figures are illustrative and vary by estate — not a quote or legal advice. Kindred is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice; we handle the administrative work and coordinate an independent attorney where one is legally required.
You don't have to carry this alone.
Tell us about the estate on a free, no-obligation call. We'll map out exactly what needs to happen — and how we'd take it off your plate.
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