Quick facts
- Confirm whether the foreign authority needs the Order, the Letters, or both — apostille the right one(s).
- Make sure the order reflects the SCOPE of authority the foreign use needs (person vs. estate).
- Some foreign uses require an EXEMPLIFIED copy ($50 + pages, §70628) — confirm before ordering.
- Never notarize the order — it's authenticated by the clerk's certification.
- General condition rules: no lamination · no post-notarization alterations · no tape · staple multipage · legible signatures/seals.
What to know
Issuing office. The probate clerk of the Superior Court in the county where the conservatorship was granted. Certified route (how to obtain a certified copy): 1. After the judge signs the Order Appointing Conservator (GC-340), request a CERTIFIED copy from the probate clerk — "for apostille / international use." 2. If a foreign jurisdiction requires it, request an EXEMPLIFIED (triple-certified) copy instead. 3. Pay the fees (see below). Confirm the clerk's seal and signature are legible. Who can request it. The appointed conservator and their attorney. Required forms. The court's records/copy request form, if any. Confirm whether the destination wants the Order (GC-340), the Letters (GC-350), or both. Cost + timeline for THIS step (verified June 2026): - Certified copy of the Order Appointing Conservator: $40 (Gov. Code §70626(a)(4)). - Exemplified / triple-certified copy: $50 (§70628).
Frequently asked questions
What exactly do I order?
A certified copy of the Order Appointing Probate Conservator (GC-340) from the probate court.
Order or Letters — which do I need?
Depends on the foreign authority. The Order grants the conservatorship; the Letters (GC-350) prove ongoing authority. Confirm which they want.
How much is the certified copy?
$40 (Gov. Code §70626(a)(4)).
Conservatorship vs. guardianship?
Conservatorship is over an incapacitated adult; guardianship is over a minor.
Common destinations
Countries this document is most often sent to (pulled from this page's own guidance). Every destination has its own rulebook — apostille (Hague) or full legalization (non-Hague).