If you are considering changes to a trust in Oakhurst, a Trust Modification Petition may help align the document with current wishes, life events, or legal requirements. At the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman, we assist residents in Madera County and across California with understanding when modifications are appropriate, what the courts require, and how to present a clear petition. Trust modifications can address family changes, tax considerations, or administrative updates. This introduction explains the purpose of a petition and how it can protect beneficiaries and trustees while maintaining the trust’s integrity under state law.
Modifying a trust in California often requires careful planning and consideration of the trust terms, the intentions of the trust creator, and the rights of beneficiaries. A Trust Modification Petition provides a formal route to request the court’s approval for amendments when direct amendment is not possible or when the trust language is ambiguous. The petition process can resolve disputes, clarify administration responsibilities, or allow changes due to changed circumstances. This paragraph outlines the basics of the petition approach and why homeowners and families in Oakhurst may pursue it to ensure their estate plan remains effective and enforceable.
A Trust Modification Petition can be an essential tool for updating a trust when circumstances change in ways the original document did not anticipate. Benefits include resolving ambiguities that could lead to disputes, correcting drafting errors, and allowing modifications that reflect current family dynamics, financial realities, or tax planning goals. When courts approve a modification, the change becomes enforceable and reduces uncertainty for trustees and beneficiaries. For many families in Oakhurst and surrounding areas, a petition prevents lengthy litigation later by addressing concerns proactively and providing clear legal authorization for the requested adjustments.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman represents clients throughout California, including Oakhurst and Madera County, on a range of estate planning needs such as trust modification petitions and trust administration matters. Our approach emphasizes clear communication, practical solutions, and careful attention to the terms of existing trusts and relevant California statutes. We help clients evaluate options, prepare required pleadings, and present a persuasive petition to the probate court when modification is needed. Our focus is on helping families preserve their intentions while navigating court procedures and protecting the interests of trustees and beneficiaries.
A trust modification petition is a formal filing with the probate court to request changes to the terms, administration, or interpretation of a trust when the settlor cannot or did not amend the trust directly. Common reasons for filing include ambiguous language requiring judicial clarification, changed family circumstances, or legal developments that affect the trust’s operation. The petition must clearly state the grounds for the requested modification, identify affected parties, and propose the precise changes sought. The court will evaluate the request in light of the trust document, the settlor’s intent, and applicable California law before granting relief.
The trust modification process involves multiple steps such as gathering trust documents and related financial records, notifying beneficiaries and interested parties, preparing and filing the petition, and, if necessary, attending a court hearing. Beneficiaries may object, in which case the court will weigh competing positions and evidence. Many petitions are resolved through negotiation or stipulated orders that reflect a consensus. An effective petition explains why the modification serves the trust’s purpose or clarifies the settlor’s intent and includes supporting documentation to reduce uncertainty and streamline judicial review.
A trust modification petition asks the probate court to alter, construe, or terminate a trust under specific California trust and probate laws. It can be used where the trust itself provides no mechanism for amendment, where the settlor lacks capacity, or when the language is unclear and judicial interpretation is needed. Typical outcomes include judicial clarification, approval of agreed amendments among beneficiaries, or court-ordered changes to administration. The petition should articulate the legal basis for relief, include proposed revised language when appropriate, and provide evidence such as prior drafts, communications, or other materials that demonstrate the intent behind the requested modification.
A successful trust modification petition typically contains a clear statement of the facts, the specific sections of the trust to be modified, the legal grounds for requesting the change, and a proposed order for the court to enter. The petitioner must identify all interested parties and serve them with notice according to probate rules. Supporting evidence often includes the trust instrument, affidavits, and documents demonstrating changed circumstances or drafting errors. Courts evaluate whether the proposed change aligns with the settlor’s intent and the trust design, and they may solicit input from beneficiaries before issuing a decision or approving a stipulated modification.
Understanding common terms can demystify the petition process. Key phrases such as settlor, trustee, beneficiary, modification, interpretation, and petition describe the roles and actions involved. Knowing how California probate courts interpret trust language and administer notices helps interested parties navigate filings and responses. This glossary provides concise definitions of terms frequently encountered in trust modification matters and highlights how courts assess intent and equity when considering modifications. Familiarity with these concepts helps beneficiaries and trustees make informed decisions about whether and how to proceed with a petition.
Settlor refers to the person who created the trust and funded it with assets. The settlor’s intent, expressed in the trust document and supporting materials, carries primary weight when courts interpret ambiguous provisions or consider modifications. If the settlor is alive and has capacity, they may be able to amend the trust directly. When the settlor lacks capacity or is deceased, interested parties may seek a judicial modification to reflect what the settlor likely intended. Courts examine trust language, past drafts, and surrounding circumstances to honor the settlor’s goals while resolving disputes among beneficiaries.
The trustee is the person or entity responsible for administering the trust according to its terms and applicable law. Trustees have fiduciary duties to beneficiaries, including duties of loyalty and prudence. When a trust requires modification to clarify administrative authority or remove impediments, the trustee may petition the court or be a party to a petition. The court will consider whether the proposed changes affect how the trustee carries out responsibilities and whether modifications better enable the trustee to fulfill the settlor’s original intent while protecting beneficiary interests.
A beneficiary is someone who stands to receive benefits from the trust, either currently or in the future. Beneficiaries have legal interests that can be affected by proposed modifications, and courts require notice to allow them to respond or object. Their rights to income, principal, or specific property can influence whether a court approves a requested change. Beneficiaries may agree to stipulated modifications, or they may contest petitions they believe undermine their interests. Courts strive to balance beneficiary protections with honoring the settlor’s intent when evaluating petitions.
A modification changes the terms of the trust, while a construction clarifies the meaning of existing language without altering substance. Courts may grant a petition for construction to interpret ambiguous terms, or they may approve a modification where factual changes or mistakes make the original terms impractical. Determining whether a petition seeks construction or modification affects the evidence the court will consider and the scope of permissible relief. Petitioners should be clear about the relief sought and provide supporting documentation to show why the proposed interpretation or change aligns with the settlor’s intent.
When trust issues arise, parties can consider informal agreements among beneficiaries, a direct amendment by the settlor if possible, or a formal petition to the court. Informal agreements are efficient when all interested parties agree and the trust permits such action. Direct amendments are simplest when the settlor has capacity. A court petition becomes necessary where agreement cannot be reached, the settlor lacks capacity, or legal interpretation is required. Each option carries different procedural requirements, timelines, and levels of finality, and the appropriate path depends on the nature of the problem, the parties involved, and the trust language under California law.
If all beneficiaries and the trustee agree on a narrow, noncontroversial adjustment to a trust and the trust terms or state law allow such agreement without court intervention, an informal resolution may be appropriate. This approach can save time and costs and preserve family relationships. It typically requires clear documentation of the agreement and, in some cases, a consent form or amendment signed by the settlor if capable. Parties should ensure the change does not conflict with broader trust provisions and should consider recording the update to prevent future disputes.
Small clerical errors, typographical mistakes, or other technical problems in a trust document may be addressable through a straightforward correction or a stipulated amendment among interested parties. When everyone agrees that the issue is a drafting mistake and the correction reflects the settlor’s intent, parties can often resolve the matter without a court hearing. Even for technical fixes, it is important to document the reasons for the change and to preserve evidence that demonstrates the original intention, so the trust’s integrity is maintained for trustees and beneficiaries over time.
When beneficiaries or trustees disagree about the meaning or administration of a trust, or when competing claims arise that cannot be resolved informally, filing a trust modification petition with the probate court may be necessary. A court-supervised process ensures all parties receive notice and an opportunity to be heard. The court evaluates evidence and issues an enforceable order that clarifies rights and responsibilities, which can prevent ongoing conflict and provide a definitive resolution. This route is often the most reliable way to resolve contested issues while safeguarding the trust’s purpose.
Significant legal or financial developments, such as changes in tax law, business interests, or the addition or removal of substantial assets, can affect a trust’s structure and administration. When adjustments affect multiple parties or raise questions about long-term consequences, a comprehensive legal review and, if necessary, a trust modification petition provide clarity and court approval for the requested changes. This approach protects the trust’s integrity and helps trustees manage assets in a manner that reflects the settlor’s intent while complying with California law and interrelated legal obligations.
A comprehensive, court-supported approach to trust modification offers several benefits, including formality, enforceability, and a clear record of the change. Court approval reduces the risk that future disputes will undermine the modification, as the order is legally binding on parties who received proper notice. This path can also provide a neutral forum for resolving contested issues and ensures that the modification aligns with statutory requirements. By obtaining judicial confirmation, trustees and beneficiaries gain certainty and a foundation for future administration decisions.
Comprehensive proceedings also encourage thorough review of the trust’s financial and administrative considerations, allowing for coordinated planning that addresses tax consequences, asset titles, and successor trustee appointments. The process creates a permanent court record that documents the reasons for changes and the legal basis for relief. This documentation can be invaluable for trustees managing complex estates and for beneficiaries seeking assurance that changes were made lawfully and with proper oversight. Overall, court involvement can safeguard the trust’s objectives while providing measurable legal protections.
One of the chief benefits of obtaining a court order for a trust modification is the legal finality it provides. When a California probate court signs an order approving a change, that order is enforceable and less susceptible to later challenge by parties who were properly notified. This reduces the likelihood of protracted litigation and offers trustees clear authority to carry out the amended terms. Beneficiaries and fiduciaries gain confidence that the trust will be administered consistently with the court’s directive, which helps preserve family relationships and protect assets over time.
A comprehensive petition process encourages a full assessment of the trust’s practical effects, including tax considerations, asset titling, and the duties of trustees under California law. Courts review proposed changes in context, and the process often uncovers related issues that should be addressed simultaneously, such as successor trustee designations or beneficiary distributions. This holistic review helps prevent unintended consequences and creates an orderly plan for administration, making it simpler for trustees to manage trust assets and for beneficiaries to understand their rights and expectations.
Before filing a petition, compile all relevant trust documents, related amendments, and any drafts or correspondence that shed light on the settlor’s intent. Include asset inventories, account statements, and records of prior actions taken by trustees. Well-organized documentation strengthens a petition by providing the court with clear evidence of why a change is needed or how a provision should be interpreted. Careful preparation also helps identify potential objections and allows interested parties to be informed promptly, which can reduce delays and facilitate negotiated resolutions.
Where conflicts exist among trustees or beneficiaries, consider mediation or negotiation before pursuing a contested court hearing. Alternative dispute resolution can lead to mutually acceptable solutions without the time and cost of full litigation. A mediated agreement that is then presented to the court for approval can accomplish the same practical outcome as a contested petition but with less strain on relationships and resources. Even when litigation becomes necessary, exploring settlement options often clarifies the issues and narrows the scope of dispute for the court to decide.
Oakhurst residents and Madera County families often seek trust modifications when life events such as remarriage, divorce, births, deaths, or relocations create a need to adjust how assets are distributed or managed. Changing family relationships or the addition of significant assets like a business or real estate can make original trust provisions impractical or inconsistent with current goals. A petition provides a clear legal avenue to update the trust when direct amendment is unavailable, ensuring that the settlor’s intentions are reflected in a way that trustees and beneficiaries can rely upon under California law.
Other common reasons to pursue a petition include correcting drafting mistakes, clarifying ambiguous provisions, addressing tax or creditor concerns, or resolving disputes between beneficiaries and trustees. When the trust document does not anticipate a particular set of circumstances, the court can authorize a modification that aligns with the trust’s purpose and protects the interests of parties involved. Seeking judicial approval can be particularly important when the proposed change affects significant assets, ongoing income streams, or long-term distribution plans for beneficiaries.
Common circumstances prompting petitions include ambiguous language that affects distribution, the need to remove or replace a trustee, the discovery of a drafting error, or changes in beneficiaries’ circumstances like incapacity or special financial needs. Other triggers include outdated tax planning provisions, changes in asset ownership, or unforeseen practical difficulties administering the trust. Each situation requires careful assessment of the trust document and consideration of how a modification would preserve the settlor’s objectives while complying with California probate procedures and protecting beneficiary rights.
Ambiguities in trust language can lead to disputes about distribution, trustee powers, or beneficiary rights. When the trust’s wording is unclear or contains conflicting provisions, a petition for construction or modification can ask the court to interpret the terms or to approve a change that reflects the settlor’s intended meaning. Courts consider the trust as a whole, prior drafts, and surrounding circumstances when resolving ambiguity. Seeking judicial clarification helps trustees administer the trust consistently and reduces the risk of future litigation among beneficiaries.
Family changes like divorce, remarriage, births, deaths, or a beneficiary’s changed financial circumstances can make the original trust plan less appropriate. A petition can address modifications needed to accommodate new family structures, provide for a beneficiary with altered needs, or reallocate assets in light of life changes. Courts consider whether proposed adjustments align with the settlor’s goals and serve the trust’s objectives. When modifications reflect the settlor’s probable intent and protect interests fairly, court approval can make the changes legally binding and easier to administer.
Drafting errors or omissions that affect the trust’s operation, as well as changes in governing law that alter how provisions function, can necessitate a petition. Courts may authorize modifications to correct mistakes or to update the document so it continues to function as intended under current statutes. Petitioners should provide evidence showing that the change aligns with the settlor’s intent or that correction is necessary to carry out the trust’s purpose. Addressing these issues promptly reduces uncertainty and helps trustees manage duties in compliance with legal requirements.
Residents of Oakhurst and Madera County can turn to the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman for assistance with trust modification petitions and related estate planning needs. We guide clients through document review, preparation of pleadings, and the probate court process, helping to identify the best path based on the trust’s language and the parties involved. Our approach focuses on clear communication, timely filings, and practical solutions to resolve disputes or obtain necessary court approvals so trustees and beneficiaries can rely on enforceable outcomes under California law.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman has a long history serving California families with estate planning and probate matters, including trust modification petitions. Our practice emphasizes careful analysis of trust documents, diligent preparation of court filings, and effective communication with trustees and beneficiaries throughout the process. We strive to present clear, persuasive petitions supported by thorough documentation and to pursue settlements when possible to reduce conflict and expense. Our goal is to secure outcomes that honor the settlor’s intent while protecting the legal rights of all parties involved.
When disputes arise or modifications are necessary, clients benefit from representation that understands probate court procedures and the practicalities of trust administration. We assist with drafting proposed revised language, preparing declarations and exhibits, and managing the notice process so filings comply with California rules. Our focus is on providing attentive, practical counsel that keeps clients informed and prepared for each stage of the petition, whether the matter resolves by agreement or requires a court hearing for a final determination.
We also work proactively to identify related estate planning steps that may be needed after a modification, such as updates to wills, trusts like revocable living trusts, or beneficiary designations. By coordinating these actions, we help ensure the overall estate plan operates smoothly and reflects current objectives. We serve clients across Madera County and beyond, offering personalized guidance on trust matters and related estate planning tools, including powers of attorney, health care directives, and successor trustee arrangements.
Our process begins with a thorough review of the trust document and related records to identify the nature of the requested change and the parties affected. We then outline options, prepare the necessary pleadings, and handle service of notice to beneficiaries and interested parties. If possible, we pursue negotiated settlements and stipulated orders to streamline resolution. When litigation is required, we prepare a detailed petition with supporting evidence and represent clients at court hearings. Throughout, we keep clients informed of timelines, procedural requirements, and likely outcomes under California probate law.
The initial stage focuses on gathering and examining all trust documents, amendments, financial statements, and related communications to determine the scope of the requested modification. We assess whether the settlor can amend the trust directly, whether interested parties are likely to consent, and whether evidence supports a petition. This assessment helps determine the most appropriate approach and identifies potential complications. A careful review at the outset helps shape a persuasive petition and avoids surprises during the notice and court stages of the process.
Collecting complete trust documents, prior drafts, correspondence, and financial records is essential for supporting a modification petition. Evidence that clarifies the settlor’s intent, demonstrates drafting errors, or shows changed circumstances can be decisive. We work with clients to identify custodians of records, locate asset documentation, and prepare declarations that explain why the requested change is appropriate. A well-documented petition anticipates potential objections and helps the court reach a reasoned decision that reflects the trust’s purposes and the settlor’s objectives.
Early communication with trustees, beneficiaries, and other interested parties can clarify positions and sometimes yield informal agreements that avoid court hearings. When possible, we facilitate discussions to explore whether a stipulated modification is feasible. If parties cannot agree, clear documentation of attempts to resolve matters can be helpful to the court. Timely notice and transparent dialogue reduce surprises and help manage expectations about the timeline and potential outcomes of the petition process under California probate rules.
Once the case is assessed and supporting materials are assembled, we draft the petition and proposed order, ensuring compliance with all procedural requirements for filing in the probate court. The petition sets out the legal grounds for modification, identifies interested parties, and attaches relevant exhibits. We also prepare declarations and notices required for proper service. Accurate, well-supported filings increase the likelihood of a timely court response and create a strong record for any contested proceedings that may follow.
The petition must describe the requested modification in precise terms and include a proposed order for the judge to sign if relief is granted. Drafting focuses on articulating the factual basis for the change, the legal standard being relied upon, and the specific language to be adopted. By presenting a clear, narrow request the court can evaluate the matter efficiently. Supporting declarations and exhibits provide the factual context that helps the judge understand the settlor’s intent and the practical need for the modification.
Proper service of notice to beneficiaries and other interested parties is required before a court will consider a petition. Notices provide recipients with details about the requested modification and the opportunity to object or file a responsive pleading. Ensuring that notice is provided correctly and documented is critical to avoid procedural challenges that could delay or invalidate the process. If disputes arise, the court will schedule a hearing to consider evidence and arguments from all interested parties before making a ruling.
Following filing and service, the court may grant the petition without a hearing if parties stipulate or if the judge finds the paperwork sufficient. If objections are raised, the matter proceeds to a hearing where evidence is presented and the court decides whether to approve the proposed modification. If the court grants relief, it issues a signed order reflecting the agreed changes or the court’s construction. That order becomes part of the public record and provides enforceable authority for trustees to administer the trust under the revised terms.
Many petitions are resolved through negotiated settlements or stipulated orders when interested parties reach agreement on the proposed modification. A stipulated resolution can be submitted to the court for approval and may avoid the time and cost of a contested hearing. Negotiation often requires compromise and clear documentation of agreed terms to ensure the court can approve the change with a clear record of consent. Stipulated orders provide certainty and a binding resolution for trustees and beneficiaries.
When a petition is contested, the court conducts a hearing where each side presents evidence and legal arguments. The judge evaluates the trust language, supporting documents, and testimony to determine whether the requested modification is justified under California law. The court’s ruling may interpret ambiguous provisions, approve corrections, or deny relief if the evidence is insufficient. A judicial decision creates a formal record and an enforceable order that guides ongoing trust administration and clarifies parties’ rights and obligations.
A trust modification petition is a formal request filed with the probate court to change, clarify, or correct terms of an existing trust when direct amendment is not possible or when the trust’s language is ambiguous. Petitions are appropriate when the settlor lacks capacity to amend the trust, when beneficiaries or trustees disagree about interpretation, or when errors and changed circumstances make the original provisions impractical or inconsistent with the settlor’s intent. The court evaluates the petition under California law and issues an order that becomes binding on properly noticed parties. Before filing, consider whether the settlor can amend the trust directly or whether all interested parties can reach an agreement that can be documented and presented to the court. If informal resolution is not possible or if the issue requires judicial interpretation, a petition provides a clear legal route to obtain enforceable relief and preserve the trust’s purpose while protecting beneficiary and trustee rights through court oversight.
The timeline for a trust modification petition varies depending on the complexity of the matter, whether the petition is contested, and local court scheduling. Simple petitions resolved by stipulation and proper notice can be processed relatively quickly, sometimes within a few months. Contested matters that require hearings, additional discovery, or extensive evidence may take longer, potentially several months to a year or more. Factors such as court backlog and the need for additional documentation influence timing. To help shorten the process, parties should prepare thorough documentation, serve timely notice, and explore settlement possibilities where feasible. Working proactively to address objections and providing complete evidentiary support can reduce delays and improve the chances of an efficient resolution consistent with California probate procedures.
Yes. Beneficiaries and other interested parties must generally be notified about a trust modification petition so they have the opportunity to respond or object before the court rules. Proper notice is a procedural requirement under California probate rules to ensure fairness and prevent later challenges based on lack of notice. The petitioner must identify all persons or entities with a legal interest and serve them in accordance with the court’s procedures to create a valid record. Notification encourages transparency and can lead to negotiated resolutions when parties engage constructively. If a beneficiary objects, the court will consider their position at a hearing. If notice was defective, a court may postpone or invalidate proceedings until proper service is completed, so adherence to notice rules is critical to avoid procedural setbacks.
A trustee may petition the court to modify a trust in certain circumstances, especially when the trustee needs direction on administration, faces ambiguous trust provisions, or must address changes that affect management of trust assets. While the trustee can initiate the petition, beneficiaries must still be served notice and given an opportunity to object. The court evaluates whether the requested modification is appropriate and consistent with the settlor’s intent and the trustee’s fiduciary duties. Even when a trustee seeks relief, courts expect that the trustee acts in good faith and in the trust’s best interests. If beneficiaries object, the court will weigh their positions and the trustee’s justification for the requested change before deciding whether to approve a modification or provide guidance through construction.
Courts consider a range of evidence when deciding a petition, including the trust instrument itself, prior drafts, relevant correspondence, financial records, and declarations from witnesses who can speak to the settlor’s intent or the practical problems with the trust’s current wording. When parties dispute facts, the court may accept testimony or documentary evidence that explains why a modification or construction is necessary to carry out the trust’s purpose. The strength of a petition often depends on clear documentation that links the requested change to the settlor’s objectives or demonstrates a drafting mistake or changed circumstances. Courts prioritize solutions that honor the settlor’s intent while protecting beneficiaries’ rights, so thorough evidence and a well-supported factual record increase the likelihood of favorable judicial consideration.
Alternatives to filing a petition include direct amendment by the settlor if they have capacity, informal agreements or stipulated amendments among beneficiaries and the trustee, and mediation or negotiation to resolve disputes without court intervention. When all interested parties agree, a stipulated order can be prepared and submitted to the court for approval, often avoiding contested hearings. These alternatives can be faster and less expensive but require consensus and careful documentation. When consensus cannot be reached or when the settlor lacks capacity, a petition may be necessary to achieve a binding and enforceable resolution. Parties should weigh the benefits of informal solutions against the finality and protections that a court-ordered modification can provide, especially for significant or contested matters.
Costs for a trust modification petition vary with the petition’s complexity, the need for negotiation or litigation, and local attorney and court fees. Simple stipulated modifications with cooperative parties typically cost less, while contested petitions involving hearings, discovery, or expert testimony are more expensive due to increased legal work and court time. Additional costs may include filing fees, service fees, and charges for obtaining and preparing supporting documents. To manage costs, parties should aim to organize documentation early, explore settlement options, and limit the scope of disputes where possible. Clear communication and realistic expectations about timelines and possible outcomes also help contain expenses associated with pursuing or defending a petition in California.
If beneficiaries object to a proposed modification, the court will consider those objections at a hearing and evaluate the merits of the petition based on the evidence presented. Objections can raise procedural concerns, challenge the proposed language, or assert that the change undermines the settlor’s intent. The court examines trust documents, supporting records, and testimony to resolve disputes and determine whether the modification is appropriate under California law. Objections do not automatically prevent a modification, but they can extend the process and require additional documentation or argument. Parties often benefit from negotiation or mediation to narrow issues before a hearing. The court’s role is to ensure a fair resolution that respects the trust’s purpose and the rights of interested parties.
Yes. Trusts can be modified after the settlor dies in certain circumstances, particularly when trust terms are ambiguous, contain drafting errors, or when unforeseen circumstances make original provisions impractical. Post-death modifications typically require court approval through a petition, and courts consider the settlor’s intent in deciding whether a change serves the trust’s purpose. Interested parties must receive notice and an opportunity to object as part of the post-death petition process. Post-death petitions often rely on evidence such as prior drafts, communications, or circumstances demonstrating what the settlor likely intended. Courts aim to honor the settlor’s goals while ensuring fair treatment of beneficiaries, and a judicially approved modification creates an enforceable order guiding administration after the settlor’s death.
To begin a trust modification petition in Oakhurst, start by gathering the trust documents, any amendments, and records that explain the reasons for the requested change. Identify all beneficiaries, trustees, and interested parties and prepare to provide proper notice. Consulting with the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman can help you assess the merits of a petition, organize supporting evidence, and determine whether informal resolution is possible before filing in probate court. If filing is necessary, we can prepare the petition and proposed order, ensure compliance with California probate procedures, and handle service and court filings. We guide clients through negotiation, settlement, or contested hearings as needed, with the goal of securing a clear and enforceable resolution that aligns with the settlor’s intent and protects beneficiary interests.
Criminal Defense
Homicide Defense
Manslaughter
Assault and Battery
Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Battery Causing Great Bodily Injury
Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence Protection Orders
Domestic Violence Restraining Order
Arson Defense
Weapons Charges
Illegal Firearm Possessions
Civil Harassment
Civil Harassment Restraining Orders
School Violence Restraining Orders
Violent Crimes Defense
Estate Planning Practice Areas