Robert P. Bergman
Estate Planning Attorney
Mr. Bergman began practicing law in 1980 after earning his J.D. and shortly thereafter concentrated on estate planning and related fields. Over the course of more than 40 years in practice, he has helped hundreds of individuals and couples plan for the orderly transfer of their assets to loved ones while avoiding conservatorship and Probate. He has always specialized exclusively in estate planning – unlike many attorneys who dabble in multiple areas – and this unwavering focus has allowed him to develop deep expertise. Early in his career, he recognized the importance of proper estate planning to avoid costly court proceedings, and he has remained dedicated to that specialty ever since.
In private practice for the majority of his career, Mr. Bergman eventually founded the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman in San Jose. Through his firm, he offers comprehensive estate planning services and specialized legal petitions for trusts. His longevity in the field means he has handled a wide spectrum of estate matters, from simple family trusts to complex estates requiring creative solutions. For example, Mr. Bergman regularly assists clients (and even other attorneys) with “Heggstad” petitions, and trust modification petitions to “fix” existing irrevocable trusts to remove unnecessary provisions or add in new provisions to protect inheritance for heirs. Over the years, Bob has earned a reputation as one of the most experienced estate lawyers in the region. Peers and clients alike recognize that his decades of focused practice translate into seasoned judgment and efficient strategies for virtually any estate issue that might arise.
Not a cheap, "fill-in-the-blanks" living trust plan, and worth every penny. Certified Specialist with 25+ years experience. I spend a lot of time in planning estates, and I expect my clients to do the same.- Attorney Bergman
Strong Ties to the Local Community
Robert “Bob” P. Bergman has deep roots in the Bay Area. He has lived in Santa Clara County since 1968 and built his life and career there. Born and raised in the Silicon Valley region, Mr. Bergman attended local schools and colleges – including community college in Cupertino – before pursuing higher education in San Jose and Santa Clara. He earned both his undergraduate degree and law degree locally, then launched his legal career in the Bay Area. Over the past four decades, he has remained committed to serving the community where he grew up.
Mr. Bergman’s strong local ties extend beyond just residency. He is widely known and trusted in the community for his estate planning expertise. Throughout his career, he has focused on helping Bay Area families protect their legacies. In fact, since becoming a lawyer in 1980, he has devoted his entire practice to the service of individuals and families in Northern California. He has raised his own family in the area and is an active presence through public education efforts – from free estate planning seminars to a weekly radio show on Bay Area airwaves. By hosting the “Plan Your Estate Radio” program on 1220 AM KDOW, Mr. Bergman provides guidance to local listeners on how to secure their family’s future. This community-focused outreach, combined with his long-time residency, has made him a familiar and reliable figure in Santa Clara County and beyond.