California Probate Form DE-154

Request for Special Notice

This page is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Forms and requirements change frequently — verify the current version with your local probate court or an attorney.

Last updated: November 3, 2026

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About Request for Special Notice

Asks the personal representative to send the requester notice of specified estate filings and actions.

When you'd use it: Filed and served by an interested person who wants to be kept informed about the estate.

Where to get the official form

The official version of Request for Special Notice is published as a PDF by the California courts. We checked this link and it resolved to a form on an official court or government website — always download the current version directly from the source rather than a third-party copy:

Verified official PDF

Download Request for Special Notice (PDF) →

Source: courts.ca.gov

Link last checked: November 3, 2026

How to file Request for Special Notice in California

  1. Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse Request for Special Notice (DE-154) when filed and served by an interested person who wants to be kept informed about the estate. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — California probate forms are revised periodically, so verify the name and number against your court's current form list before you start.
  2. Step 2 — Complete every required fieldFill out Request for Special Notice carefully and review it for errors before filing. Probate cases can already take months — a small mistake on the form can set your timeline back further.
  3. Step 3 — Get it notarized or witnessed if requiredSome probate forms must be signed in front of a notary or witnesses. Check the instructions on the form itself, and arrange notarization before you file if it's required.
  4. Step 4 — File it with the correct courtSubmit Request for Special Notice to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the California county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).

Working through the Request for Special Notice? SwiftProbate builds a personalized, step-by-step checklist for settling the estate — so you know which forms to file, in what order, and by when.

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Probate in California

See the full California probate guide for filing deadlines, small-estate options, timelines, costs, and county courthouse details.

Read the California probate guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Request for Special Notice (DE-154)?
Asks the personal representative to send the requester notice of specified estate filings and actions. You'd typically use it when filed and served by an interested person who wants to be kept informed about the estate.
Where do I file Request for Special Notice in California?
Probate forms are filed with the probate court or county clerk in the California county where the deceased person lived. Our California probate guide can help you find the right courthouse, filing fees, and local requirements.
Do I need a lawyer to complete Request for Special Notice?
Many people complete probate forms themselves, especially for smaller or uncontested estates. Complex estates may benefit from professional advice. SwiftProbate is an informational tool that helps you understand and organize the process — it is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Is Request for Special Notice available online?
Most California probate forms are published as PDFs by the state courts or the county clerk. You can find the official source linked above.

Other California Probate Forms

Petition for ProbateDE-111Notice of Hearing on Petition to Determine Claim to PropertyDE-115Attachment to Notice of Hearing Proof of Service by MailDE-120(MA)Notice of Hearing—Decedent's Estate or TrustDE-120

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate forms and requirements vary by state, county, and individual circumstances, and change over time. Always verify the current form and instructions with your local probate court, and consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. SwiftProbate is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation.