031: Adjudicated Newspapers in CA Probate with Margie Miller

Probate Notes: Your Guide to Navigating California Probate Law

February 10, 2026 | 37 min 12 sec

Episode Description


In this episode of Probate Notes, Sam is joined by Margie Miller, publisher of City News Group, to pull back the curtain on adjudicated newspapers and why they matter so much in probate cases. They dig into what "general circulation" actually means, how newspapers become court-approved for legal notices, and the role proper publication plays in due process, from petitions for probate to notices of sale and service by publication.

Margie brings nearly two decades of experience as a newspaper publisher and explains how legal notices work in the real world, common mistakes attorneys and self-represented parties make, and how modern tools like online submission and proofing have streamlined what used to be a very manual process.

If you handle probate filings in California, this is a practical, behind-the-scenes conversation you'll want to hear.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • What makes a newspaper legally adjudicated for probate notices
  • General circulation explained and why it matters for due process
  • Probate publication deadlines and how weekly schedules affect hearings
  • Common mistakes that force costly republication
  • How online submission and proofing reduce publication errors
  • Best practices for attorneys handling probate and court-ordered notices
Resources from this Episode

citynewsgroup.com

The 6-Stage Probate Process - How to Navigate California Probate

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Episode Credits

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