Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

Re: stepmom

the person possessing a will is required to lodge the original will with the probate court within 30 days of the date of death. you should check the superior court in the county in which your father died (and resided). if the will has not been lodged with the superior court, you should in writing request a copy of the will from your stepmother. if she does not respond or if you believe she has altered or replaced the will (and your father's estate is substantial and the property was not held in joint tenancy or as community property with your stepmother), you should retain a qualified attorney and consider filing a petition for probate (if your stepmother had already done this, you should have received notice from her).