Chapter 1. Rules Of Practice of California Probate Code >> Division 3. >> Part 1. >> Chapter 1.

Except to the extent that this code provides applicable rules, the rules of practice applicable to civil actions, including discovery proceedings and proceedings under Title 3a (commencing with Section 391) of Part 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure, apply to, and constitute the rules of practice in, proceedings under this code. All issues of fact joined in probate proceedings shall be tried in conformity with the rules of practice in civil actions.

(a) The Judicial Council may provide by rule for the practice and procedure under this code. Unless disapproved by the Judicial Council, a court may provide by local rule for the practice and procedure under this code. Judicial Council and local court rules shall be consistent with the applicable statutes.
  (b) The Judicial Council may prescribe the form of the applications, notices, orders, and other documents required by this code. Any form prescribed by the Judicial Council is deemed to comply with this code.

Unless it is otherwise provided by this code or by rules adopted by the Judicial Council, either the superior court or the court on appeal may, in its discretion, order costs to be paid by any party to the proceedings, or out of the assets of the estate, as justice may require.

(a) The court may, on its own motion or on request of a personal representative, guardian, conservator, trustee, or other interested person, appoint a guardian ad litem at any stage of a proceeding under this code to represent the interest of any of the following persons, if the court determines that representation of the interest otherwise would be inadequate:
  (1) A minor.
  (2) An incapacitated person.
  (3) An unborn person.
  (4) An unascertained person.
  (5) A person whose identity or address is unknown.
  (6) A designated class of persons who are not ascertained or are not in being.
  (b) If not precluded by a conflict of interest, a guardian ad litem may be appointed to represent several persons or interests.
  (c) The reasonable expenses of the guardian ad litem, including compensation and attorney's fees, shall be determined by the court and paid as the court orders, either out of the property of the estate involved or by the petitioner or from such other source as the court orders.

The public guardian shall not be appointed as a guardian ad litem pursuant to Section 1003 unless the court, after reasonable notice and inquiry, finds that no other qualified person is willing to act as a guardian ad litem.

If a proceeding under this code affects the title to or the right of possession of real property, notice of the pendency of the proceeding may be filed pursuant to Title 4.5 (commencing with Section 405) of Part 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure.