Estate Planning Lawyers for San Diego, California

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Meet some of our San Diego Estate Planning Lawyers

Curt B. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
View Curt
5.0 (4)
Member Since:
March 25, 2023

Curt B.

Managing Partner
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, California
12 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA MI, OR, TX, WA
UCLA School of Law

Curt Brown has experience advising clients on a variety of franchising, business litigation, transactional, and securities law matters. Mr. Brown's accolades include: - Super Lawyers Rising Star - California Lawyer of the Year by The Daily Journal - Pro Bono Attorney of the Year the USC Public Interest Law Fund Curt started his legal career in the Los Angeles office of the prestigious firm of Irell & Manella LLP, where his practice focused on a wide variety of complex civil litigation matters, including securities litigation, antitrust, trademark, bankruptcy, and class action defense. Mr. Brown also has experience advising mergers and acquisitions and international companies concerning cyber liability and class action defense. He is admitted in California, Florida, D.C., Washington, Illinois, Colorado, and Michigan.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"I was very impressed with the responsiveness and knowledge brought to my situation."

Rhea d. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
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5.0 (74)
Member Since:
April 12, 2023

Rhea d.

Attorney
Free Consultation
San Francisco Bay Area, California
29 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA DC
University of Utah

Rhea de Aenlle is a business-savvy attorney with extensive experience in Privacy & Data Security (CIPP/US, CIPP/E), GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, FERPA, Intellectual Property, and Commercial Contracts. She has over 25 years of legal experience as an in-house counsel, AM Law 100 firm associate, and a solo practice attorney. Rhea works with start-up and midsize technology companies.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Rhea did quick work with efficiency and attention to detail. Also, she listens carefully and gets to the essence of what you're trying to accomplish. Highly recommended!"

Chris H. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
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5.0 (13)
Member Since:
June 1, 2023

Chris H.

Lawyer
Dayton, Ohio
3 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Concord Law School at Purdue University Global

As an attorney licensed in California and currently practicing remotely from Ohio, my primary focus is on drafting and reviewing prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. I offer help in drafting or navigating these agreements, ensuring they are tailored to each client's unique situation and needs. While my background includes experience in cybersecurity, my current legal services are centered around family law, particularly in the creation and revision of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. Additionally, I provide services in wills and trusts, along with other legal areas, to offer comprehensive solutions to my clients.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
4.7

"Excellent lawyer! Really appreciated his suggestions and reasonable pricing. Would definitely do business with him again!"

Maria A. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
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5.0 (15)
Member Since:
June 29, 2023

Maria A.

Principal Attorney
Free Consultation
Burbank, California
9 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Whittier Law School

Maria Akopyan is a dedicated family law attorney with a focus on marital agreements (prenuptial, postnuptial, and cohabitation agreements) as well as uncontested and default divorces. As the founder and principal attorney at Sapphire Legal Solutions, APC, Maria is committed to providing compassionate, efficient legal guidance through some of life’s most challenging transitions. Whether you’re navigating an amicable divorce or seeking a marital agreement, Maria offers personalized legal solutions that are uniquely tailored to your needs. With her extensive knowledge of family law, she works tirelessly to protect your rights, advocate for your best interests, and guide you empathetically toward a positive resolution. Maria understands the emotional complexities involved in family law matters. She strives to make the legal process as smooth and supportive as possible, ensuring that your family's well-being is safeguarded every step of the way. Trust Maria to be your reliable advocate, helping you find the best legal path forward for you and your loved ones. Let’s work together to resolve your legal matters with care, clarity, and confidence.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Maria was friendly quick to respond, and clearly answered my questions. Thanks again, Maria!"

Sarah S. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
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5.0 (17)
Member Since:
June 19, 2023

Sarah S.

Principal Attorney and Founder
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, California
22 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Loyola Law School

With 20 years of transactional law experience, I have represented corporate giants like AT&T and T-Mobile, as well as mid-size and small businesses across a wide spectrum of legal needs, including business purchase agreements, entity formation, employment matters, commercial and residential real estate transactions, partnership agreements, online business terms and policy drafting, and business and corporate compliance. Recognizing the complexities of the legal landscape, I am dedicated to providing accessible and transparent legal services by offering a flat fee structure, making high-quality legal representation available to all. My extensive knowledge and commitment to client success establishes me as a trusted advisor for businesses of all sizes.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Sarah was extremely helpful in making me contracts that I needed for wholesaling real estate. Also gave me all the licenses I needed for my business and answered all my questions on information I was unsure of in the business. Will definitely only be going to Sarah for any of my legal needs."

Michael S. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
View Michael
4.9 (7)
Member Since:
April 16, 2023

Michael S.

Managing Partner
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, California
31 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA NY
Harvard Law School

I began my career at "big law" firms, worked in-house for 14 years, and now have my own practice, providing big law quality at small firm rates. My practice focuses on strategic and commercial transactions, including M&A, preferred stock and common stock offerings, asset purchases and sales, joint ventures and strategic partnerships, stock option plans, master services agreements and SOWs, software development and license agreements, SaaS agreements, NDAs, employment and consulting agreements. I also manage corporate governance, advise boards and executives, and act as outside general counsel. I represent clients across the country and around the world.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
4.0

"Completed most of the work with majority of the answers correct!"

Moxie M. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
View Moxie
Member Since:
February 11, 2023

Moxie M.

Employment Lawyer
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, CA
16 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA FL, OH
Stetson University College of Law

Lindsey has always been deeply invested in the power of knowledge; she was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio before making her way to Miami University for a dual Bachelor's degree. Afterward, Lindsey completed a Juris Doctor at Stetson University with an International Law concentration before earning a Health & Hospital law Certificate from Seton Hall School of Law. After graduating law school, Lindsey began her career as an associate at a Florida-based insurance litigation firm. She eventually transitioned to become a multi-year Rising Star in Employment Law by Super Lawyers as a labor and employment lawyer with Scott Wagner and Associates, supporting clients in Florida, California & Ohio with employment law matters. Her expertise covers counseling on workplace policies/handbooks; investigations into EEO discrimination/retaliation claims; wage disputes & wrongful terminations - equipping employees across multiple states for success in the ever-changing modern workforce landscape. Leveraging extensive knowledge of state/federal regulations gained from handling dozens of cases over many years, Lindsey has established herself as a leader in the field. Lindsey is a seasoned litigator, well-versed in the complexities of employer and employee disputes. She has represented clients on both sides during numerous mediations and provides an informed perspective when advocating for her clients' interests. She sharpened her dispute resolution skills by completing Harvard Law School's Negotiation Mediation course as part of their Executive Education Program as well as a Florida Circuit Civil Certified Mediator - making her qualified to mediate Circuit Civil cases in Florida as well as California and Ohio. Her breadth of knowledge provides valuable insight into the complexities each side faces while navigating their way through conflict mediation situations. With her varied expertise in the world of entertainment industry employment law, Lindsey has become a go-to source for Hollywood professionals, studios, and companies looking to make sure their legal considerations and entertainment contract law knowledge is up to date. From contract negotiations and employment advice to her outstanding knowledge of current regulations, she provides clients with everything they need for success both now and into the future. Lindsey dedicates her time and expertise to advancing the legal community. She proudly serves on the Executive Council for Florida Bar Association Labor and Employment Section, as well as with American Bar's Membership Outreach Committee in a leadership role. Lindsey is also an respected LA Magazine Editorial Board Member while Co-Chairing both LACBA CLE Event Dinner Committees - focusing on labor and employment law developments. Lindsey is passionate about providing accessible legal services to those in need. She serves on the Pro Bono Mediation Panel for the U.S Central District Court of California, volunteers as a mediator with California Lawyers for Arts and acts as Settlement Officer with Los Angeles Superior Court's ResolveLA program - all while donating her time towards resolving disputes through pro bono mediation at Equal Employment Opportunities Commission (EEOC). Lindsey is a globetrotter, an outdoor enthusiast, and dedicated sports fan all rolled into one. While splitting time between California, Florida and Ohio she has the best of three world - from hiking trails to family gatherings there's always something interesting on her horizon! Plus with photography as a hobby Lindsey enjoys capturing life’s precious moments so they can be treasured for years to come.

Debra G. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
View Debra
Member Since:
March 24, 2023

Debra G.

Business and Real Estate Attorney, 38 years
Free Consultation
Orange County, California
40 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Loyola Law School, Los Angeles

I have been a business and real estate attorney for 38 years. I handle both transactional and litigation matters.

Tyler P. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
View Tyler
Member Since:
May 3, 2023

Tyler P.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, California
4 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
Northwestern California University School of Law

I am an experienced business coordinator with years of experience operating within an international setting where I discovered my passion for contracts and helping people. I became an attorney later in life to further and enhance these passions and to be able to help those in similar positions as I was find the legal help they need, and work with clients on a rate that is a fraction of the cost of going to a larger firm.

Bethany T. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
View Bethany
Member Since:
May 22, 2023

Bethany T.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Florida and California
17 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA FL
Chapman University School of Law

I am an experienced family law attorney licensed in California and Florida with over 13 years of experience.

Dean S. - Estate Planning Lawyer in San Diego, California
View Dean
Member Since:
May 22, 2023

Dean S.

Attorney
Free Consultation
San Diego, California
17 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
University of Michigan

Dean represents client in all manners of tax controversy and provides comprehensive business consulting to corporations, LLCs, and non-profits. He has worked with multi-national companies, but most enjoys assisting small businesses with all legal matters from formation to dissolution. Dean routinely represents individuals and businesses before the IRS and various state taxation agencies. From audits to appeals, he works closely with his clients to reach favorable outcomes and beneficial resolutions. Though he assists many clients in his home state of California, Dean values working with a diverse clientele throughout the country.

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Estate Planning Legal Questions and Answers

Estate Planning

Fee Agreement

California

Asked on Mar 7, 2023

Do I need to provide my personal and assets info to an estate planning attorney before signing a fee agreement so they can begin prepping a living trust

Looking for an estate planning attorney to prep a living trust and all other necessary docs

Jane C.

Answered Mar 10, 2023

No. You do not need to provide any information until you agree to work with the attorney.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Estate Planning

Last Will and Testament

California

Asked on Apr 24, 2023

Can I create an estate plan without the help of a lawyer?

I am in my mid-fifties and have recently been diagnosed with a terminal illness. I have a large estate that I would like to be distributed to my family and friends when I pass away. I have done some research and understand the importance of having an estate plan, but I am not sure if I am able to create one without the help of a lawyer. I am looking for more information that will help me make the best decision for my family and myself.

Philip M.

Answered May 12, 2023

You can certainly go ahead and fill out simple forms to complete some easy estate planning documents like wills, but for more complicated documents like a trust (which is required if you want to avoid probate) it can get a little trickier. Further, anyone can fill in the blanks, but an experienced attorney will be able to explain what the document does and how it meets your wishes best. Hope this helps.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Estate Planning

Last Will and Testament

California

Asked on Mar 21, 2023

What happens if I die without a will?

As I have gotten older and accumulated assets, I have become increasingly aware of the importance of having a will in place. However, I have not yet taken the steps to create one, and I am curious about the potential consequences of dying without a will. Therefore, I would like to seek the advice of a lawyer to understand what would happen to my estate and how my assets would be distributed in the event of my death without a will.

Matthew S.

Answered Apr 11, 2023

If you die without a will your assets will be distributed to your heirs pursuant to the intestacy statute for your state. However, if you use a will, you can control who gets your assets and can give assets to non-blood related persons who wouldn't otherwise be an heir.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Estate Planning

Life Insurance Trust

Kentucky

Asked on Sep 29, 2025

If a life insurance policy owner dies and the insured is still alive and it is a life insurance policy with cash value that the policy owner had taken out a loan against with the policy so withdrew some of the cash value and were not legally liable to pay that debt to the policy back, does the executor have to pay that debt to the cash value off?

My mom had a life insurance policy on my younger adult sister. My mom was the policy owner and my adult sister is the insured. My mom passed in 2022. The life insurance policy she had on my sister had cash value on it and my mom had taken some of that out when she built her house about 20 years ago. As the executor, am I required to pay that back, since my mom wasn't actually required to put the money back in the cash value if she didn't want to? Is it considered a debt that I need to pay out of the estate? The estate has the funds to pay it but I wasn't sure if it was required to pay.

Randy M.

Answered Sep 30, 2025

When a policy owner takes out a loan against a life insurance policy’s cash value, that loan is secured entirely by the policy itself. It’s not a personal liability of the policy owner, and it doesn’t become a debt of the estate. The insurer tracks the outstanding balance and deducts it from the policy’s value. In your situation, your mother was the owner of a policy insuring your sister’s life. She borrowed against its cash value years ago. Because she wasn’t legally required to repay the loan during her lifetime, the obligation doesn’t shift to her estate. As executor, you don’t treat that loan as a claim against estate assets. The only impact is on the policy itself: the loan plus interest reduces the cash value if surrendered, or the death benefit if your sister eventually dies while the policy is still in force. What Happens After the Owner Dies Since your mother has passed and the insured (your sister) is still alive, the policy itself becomes part of the estate unless a contingent owner was named. That means you may have temporary control as executor. At this point you have several options: 1. Maintain the policy by continuing premiums if required. The loan remains in place and will keep accruing interest, which reduces the policy’s value. 2. Transfer ownership to your sister or another beneficiary under the will or intestacy laws. The new owner takes the policy subject to the outstanding loan. 3. Surrender the policy for its remaining net cash value, which will already reflect a reduction for the loan balance. 4. Allow the policy to lapse by discontinuing premium payments, though that wastes any remaining value. The right choice depends on the estate’s circumstances, your sister’s wishes, and whether preserving coverage has practical value. Executor’s Responsibilities Your duty as executor is to collect estate assets, pay valid debts and expenses, and distribute the remainder under the will or state law. Since policy loans are not debts of the estate, you don’t repay them out of general funds. The insurance company enforces repayment internally by adjusting the policy value. The only estate-level question is whether to hold, transfer, or surrender the policy itself. Review the Policy Contract You should review the actual policy contract to confirm ownership and rights after your mother’s death, as terms can vary. If the estate inherited the policy, the insurer will require documentation before you can act. For guidance on transferring ownership and managing the policy, it’s best to consult an estate attorney in your jurisdiction. Contracts Counsel can connect you with experienced estate attorneys who can assist with this process.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Estate Planning

Power of Attorney

Texas

Asked on Feb 14, 2022

Power of Attorney

Revoking power attorney

T. Phillip B.

Answered Feb 18, 2022

Typically anything written which indicates you are revoking it should be sufficient. It should be delivered to your agent. I would also deliver it to any banks or other places where your agent may use the POA.

Read 1 attorney answer>
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