State-Specific Legal Forms

California quitclaim deeds must include a preliminary change of ownership report (PCOR) when filed. The deed must be notarized and recorded in the county where the property is located. A documentary transfer tax may apply based on the property value.

California provides statutory forms for both durable and springing powers of attorney under the Probate Code. The principal must sign in the presence of a notary or two witnesses. An Advance Health Care Directive is a separate form under Cal. Prob. Code § 4701.

California recognizes both formal attested wills and holographic (handwritten) wills. A formal will must be signed by two witnesses. California is a community property state, which affects how property passes under a will.

California combines the living will and healthcare power of attorney into a single Advance Health Care Directive under Probate Code § 4701. The statutory form allows you to name a healthcare agent and state your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment.

California requires LLCs to have an operating agreement, though it does not need to be filed with the state. California imposes an annual $800 minimum franchise tax on all LLCs plus an additional fee for LLCs with gross revenue exceeding $250,000.

California has extensive tenant protection laws including statewide rent control under AB 1482 (the Tenant Protection Act of 2019), which caps annual rent increases. Landlords must provide specific disclosures about mold, lead paint, bed bugs, and more.

California eviction (unlawful detainer) requires strict compliance with notice requirements. The landlord must serve a 3-day notice to pay rent or quit, 3-day notice to cure or quit for lease violations, or 30/60-day notice for no-fault terminations under AB 1482.

California small claims court handles disputes up to $10,000 for individuals and $5,000 for businesses and entities. Attorneys are not allowed to represent parties in small claims court. The plaintiff must attempt to resolve the dispute before filing.

California is a no-fault divorce state — irreconcilable differences is the only ground needed. As a community property state, marital assets are generally split 50/50. There is a mandatory six-month waiting period before the divorce becomes final.

California name changes require filing a petition, publishing the order to show cause in a local newspaper for four consecutive weeks, and attending a court hearing. Certain individuals (sex offenders, those with felony convictions) face additional requirements.