Quick facts
- Confirm whether the foreign authority needs the Order, the Letters, or both — apostille the right one(s).
- 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.
- Submitting a plain photocopy or download instead of a clerk-certified copy.
What to know
Issuing office. The probate clerk of the Superior Court in the county where the guardianship was granted. Certified route (how to obtain a certified copy): 1. After the judge signs the Order Appointing Guardian (GC-240), 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 guardian and their attorney. Required forms. The court's records/copy request form, if any. Confirm whether the destination wants the Order (GC-240), the Letters (GC-250), or both. Cost + timeline for THIS step (verified June 2026): - Certified copy of the Order Appointing Guardian: $40 (Gov. Code §70626(a)(4)). - Exemplified / triple-certified copy: $50 (§70628) + page fees..
Frequently asked questions
What exactly do I order?
A certified copy of the Order Appointing Guardian (GC-240) from the probate court.
Order or Letters — which do I need?
Depends on the foreign authority. The Order grants the guardianship; the Letters (GC-250) prove ongoing authority. Confirm which they want.
How much is the certified copy?
$40 (Gov. Code §70626(a)(4)).
Guardianship vs. conservatorship?
Guardianship is over a minor; conservatorship is over an incapacitated adult.
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).