If you are considering changes to an existing trust in Ontario, California, a trust modification petition may provide the legal pathway to adjust terms, trustees, or distribution instructions. At the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman, we help clients in San Bernardino County understand when a petition is necessary and how to proceed while protecting assets and beneficiaries. This guide clarifies the steps, likely outcomes, and how state law can affect a proposed modification. It is important to approach trust amendments thoughtfully to reduce conflict and preserve the settlor’s intentions while complying with California law.
Trust modification petitions can arise from many situations: changed family circumstances, errors in drafting, evolving financial situations, or newly discovered legal issues. Our firm is familiar with California trust law and the local courts in San Bernardino County, and we assist clients with clear planning, timely filings, and strategic communication among beneficiaries. Understanding the potential grounds for modification, required notices, and possible objections helps clients make informed decisions. We provide practical guidance on preparing pleadings and negotiating solutions that balance legal compliance with families’ goals and relationships.
Filing a trust modification petition can preserve the intent behind an estate plan while adapting to changed realities, such as new beneficiaries, relocation, tax law changes, or retirement account considerations. Properly pursued modifications can prevent future disputes, clarify distribution instructions, and address drafting errors that might otherwise lead to expensive litigation. For settlors and trustees alike, a petition offers a formal, court-supervised way to validate adjustments and confirm authority. Taking a measured approach improves the likelihood of a favorable resolution and provides peace of mind that the trust will function as intended for current and future beneficiaries.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman provides estate planning and probate services with a focus on practical solutions for California residents, including those in San Bernardino County and Ontario. Our attorneys guide clients through trust creation, administration, and modification with attention to legal detail and family dynamics. We aim to communicate clearly, prepare necessary documents thoroughly, and represent clients in court when required. Whether you need a simple amendment or a petition to modify trust terms, our approach prioritizes protecting client interests, minimizing conflict, and navigating local court procedures efficiently.
A trust modification petition is a judicial process that requests approval to change a trust’s provisions or administrative terms. In California, petitions may be necessary when the changes cannot be made privately under the trust’s amendment clause or when there are disputes among beneficiaries or trustees. The petition typically sets out the reasons for modification, the proposed changes, and legal grounds such as mistake, unanticipated circumstances, or a settlor’s incapacity. The court will assess whether the requested modification aligns with statutory standards and the settlor’s intent when deciding whether to grant the petition.
The trust modification process involves preparing a formal petition, providing notice to interested parties, and potentially attending hearings before a probate or superior court. Beneficiaries may object, so clear documentation and a persuasive legal rationale help the court evaluate the request. Courts look at whether modifications are consistent with the settlor’s intent and whether changes are equitable given the circumstances. Understanding local filing requirements, timelines, and likely evidentiary needs reduces surprises and increases the chance of a timely resolution without protracted litigation.
A trust modification petition asks the court to alter existing trust terms or administrative provisions when private amendment is unavailable or contested. Common uses include correcting drafting mistakes, adjusting distributions when beneficiaries’ circumstances have changed, or clarifying trustee powers. Petitions can also address issues such as removal or replacement of a trustee, reformation to reflect the settlor’s true intent, or changes required by tax or creditor considerations. The court evaluates whether the petition serves the trust’s purpose and respects the expressed or reasonably inferred wishes of the settlor, applying California probate and trust law standards.
Successful petitions present a clear statement of the proposed modification, factual background supporting the request, and legal grounds for relief such as mistake, changed circumstances, or ambiguous language. Required steps include drafting the petition, assembling supporting evidence like declarations or trust excerpts, providing notice to beneficiaries and interested parties, and filing with the appropriate court. Counsel may need to respond to objections and attend hearings. Adequate preparation and documentation, including communications with trustees and beneficiaries, often determine whether a petition proceeds smoothly or becomes prolonged litigation.
This glossary provides definitions for common terms encountered during trust modification proceedings in California. Familiarity with these terms helps clients follow the petition process, communicate effectively with counsel, and understand court decisions. Typical entries include definitions for settlor, trustee, beneficiary, petition for modification, reformation, and notice procedures. Knowing these terms can reduce confusion and ensure that parties meet legal requirements such as notice deadlines and evidentiary standards. If any term is unclear, ask your attorney for a plain-language explanation tailored to your case.
The settlor is the person who created the trust and transferred assets into it. In modification proceedings, the settlor’s original intent and capacity at the time of trust creation are often central considerations. Courts look to the trust document, related communications, and relevant circumstances to determine what the settlor intended. When the settlor is alive but incapacitated, petitioners may need to show why the modification is necessary and consistent with prior directives. When the settlor is deceased, evidence about their intent may come from other documents or testimony of those familiar with their wishes.
Reformation is a legal remedy that allows a court to change the trust document to reflect the settlor’s actual intent when a mistake in drafting prevented the trust from expressing that intent. Reformation petitions must present clear evidence that a clerical error, drafting oversight, or other mistake caused the discrepancy. Courts require supporting declarations, documentation, or other proof to justify rewriting terms. Reformation differs from a simple amendment because it is a judicial correction of an error rather than a direct alteration by the settlor.
The trustee is the individual or entity responsible for administering the trust according to its terms and applicable law. Trustees have fiduciary duties, including loyalty to beneficiaries and prudent asset management. In modification matters, a trustee may propose changes, resist petitions, or be asked to implement court-ordered modifications. Courts examine a trustee’s actions to ensure they align with obligations and that any proposed changes are in the trust’s best interest. Trustees must provide required notices and follow procedural rules when a petition is filed.
A beneficiary is a person or entity entitled to receive benefits from the trust. Beneficiaries have standing to object to proposed modifications that materially affect their interests. Notice requirements exist to inform beneficiaries of petitions, giving them the opportunity to respond or negotiate. Courts consider beneficiaries’ rights when assessing whether a modification should be approved, balancing fairness and adherence to the settlor’s intent. Communication among beneficiaries and the trustee can sometimes lead to negotiated resolutions that avoid contested hearings.
When changing a trust, parties may pursue a private amendment if the settlor is available and the trust allows it, or a judicial route such as reformation or modification petition when private action is impossible or disputed. Amendments are straightforward if the settlor can act and the trust permits it, while reformation corrects drafting errors through court order. A modification petition is appropriate when circumstances have changed or when disputes require judicial resolution. Each option carries different procedural requirements, timelines, and evidentiary burdens, so choosing the right pathway depends on the settlor’s condition, the nature of the change, and beneficiary interests.
If the settlor is alive and capable of making decisions, a direct amendment is often the simplest route to update trust terms. Amendments can address changes in beneficiaries, account designations, or trustee appointments without involving the courts. This approach avoids court costs and public filings, preserving privacy and expediency. It is important that amendments conform to the trust’s amendment provisions and state law to ensure validity. Working with counsel helps ensure that documentation is properly executed and that amendments do not unintentionally conflict with other estate planning instruments.
When all interested beneficiaries and the trustee agree on a modification, they may be able to document the change through settlement agreements or stipulated court orders, avoiding contested litigation. Voluntary agreements can save time and expense and maintain family relationships by providing a collaborative resolution. Agreements still need to respect the settlor’s intent and legal constraints, and in some cases judicial approval may be advisable to avoid future disputes. Clear documentation and proper notice to all required parties reduce the risk of challenges later on.
When beneficiaries or trustees disagree about proposed changes, a trust modification petition brings the matter before a court for an impartial determination. Disputes might concern allocation of assets, trustee authority, or whether a change violates the settlor’s intent. Judicial involvement provides a formal mechanism for resolving contested issues, ensuring that hearings follow procedural rules and evidence is evaluated under applicable law. Preparing a petition carefully, with supporting evidence and legal arguments, increases the chances that the court will resolve disagreements in a manner consistent with legal standards and fairness to affected parties.
When a trust contains ambiguous provisions or drafting errors that could alter distribution outcomes or trustee powers, a court petition can correct or clarify those provisions. Ambiguity can lead to conflicting interpretations and potential litigation after the settlor’s death. A petition for reformation or modification helps the court interpret the settlor’s intent, resolve contradictions, and issue binding instructions for administration. Proper evidence, such as prior drafts, correspondence, or testimony about intent, supports the case and helps the court make an informed decision to prevent future disputes.
A comprehensive approach to trust modification considers legal requirements, family dynamics, tax implications, and long-term administration concerns. By evaluating all aspects before filing, clients can reduce the risk of overlooked issues that lead to delays or objections. Comprehensive preparation includes gathering documentation, communicating with beneficiaries, and anticipating potential counterarguments. This careful planning helps courts see the rationale for proposed changes, improves prospects for approval, and preserves relationships by fostering transparent negotiation where possible.
Another advantage of a thorough strategy is the ability to coordinate trust changes with related estate planning documents such as wills, powers of attorney, and health care directives. Ensuring consistency across these instruments prevents conflicting directives and reduces the likelihood of litigation. Comprehensive review also identifies opportunities to improve administration procedures, update trustee powers, and address tax or creditor concerns. A coordinated plan produces clearer outcomes for beneficiaries and simplifies administration over time, helping the trust operate smoothly in line with the settlor’s intentions.
Taking a comprehensive approach helps reduce the chances that beneficiaries will contest the trust after modifications are made. Detailed preparation and clear documentation make it more difficult for objections to succeed, since courts favor well-supported petitions that align with legal standards and the settlor’s probable intent. Addressing potential sources of dispute before filing, such as ambiguous language or inconsistent provisions, minimizes surprises. The resulting clarity supports smoother administration and fewer contested proceedings, allowing families to focus on preserving assets and honoring the settlor’s wishes rather than prolonged court battles.
Comprehensive modifications clarify trustee duties, update distribution instructions, and align trust documents with current law and family circumstances, promoting consistent administration over time. By addressing administrative provisions, successor trustee designations, and distribution triggers, a well-crafted petition helps trustees perform their duties efficiently and reduces the risk of misinterpretation. These improvements protect assets and provide beneficiaries with predictable outcomes. Thoughtful drafting and court-approved changes ensure that the trust functions as intended for future generations with fewer administrative obstacles.
Gather original trust documents, any prior drafts, correspondence related to the settlor’s intentions, and financial records that support the rationale for modification. Clear documentation of the settlor’s wishes and relevant circumstances strengthens a petition’s credibility and helps the court understand why a change is requested. Obtain written statements from parties with direct knowledge when appropriate, and organize evidence chronologically to show how circumstances evolved. This preparation reduces surprises during the court process and helps streamline the filing and hearing stages.
Before or during a petition, mediation or structured settlement talks can resolve disputes without protracted litigation. Neutral facilitation helps parties focus on practical solutions and can preserve family relationships. Mediated resolutions often result in faster outcomes and lower costs compared with courtroom battles. Document any agreements thoroughly, and where appropriate, obtain court approval to create a binding and enforceable order. Preparing for mediation with organized evidence and a clear understanding of desired outcomes increases the chance of reaching a workable compromise.
You might consider a trust modification petition if changing circumstances have made the trust’s terms impractical or unfair, if drafting errors create ambiguity, or if a trustee’s conduct has made administration ineffective. Other reasons include changes in tax law, newly discovered assets that were not properly accounted for, or a settlor’s inability to make valid amendments. A petition provides a formal way to request judicial guidance or correction so the trust can operate as intended while protecting the interests of beneficiaries and trustees under California law.
Family dynamics often drive the need for modification petitions, particularly when beneficiaries’ financial needs, health issues, or life events differ from expectations at trust creation. Removing or replacing a trustee, clarifying powers, or adjusting distributions to address changed circumstances can all be grounds for seeking court approval. Consulting with counsel early helps identify whether an amendment, voluntary agreement, or petition is the best path. Early evaluation and strategic planning reduce the likelihood of contested litigation and improve the prospects for a just result that honors the settlor’s intentions.
Typical circumstances include drafting errors, ambiguous language that leads to conflicting interpretations, beneficiaries who require special financial arrangements, or trustee incapacity or misconduct. Other triggers are tax law changes, discovery of assets that alter distribution calculations, or family changes such as marriages, divorces, or deaths after the trust was created. In each case, the need for modification arises from a mismatch between the trust’s written terms and current realities, and the petition process helps courts adapt trust administration to those realities while respecting legal standards.
Drafting mistakes or vague provisions can create uncertainty about distribution instructions or trustee powers, potentially leading to disputes among beneficiaries and delays in administration. A petition for reformation or clarification asks the court to correct or interpret the language to reflect the settlor’s intended meaning. Evidence such as earlier drafts, correspondence, or contextual facts may be used to support the request. Addressing these issues through a formal petition reduces the risk of inconsistent interpretations and helps ensure the trust operates as the settlor intended.
Significant shifts in beneficiaries’ lives, such as changed financial needs, disability, or other unforeseen events, may require adjustments to distribution terms to better achieve the settlor’s goals. A petition can request court approval for tailored provisions that address new realities while balancing the interests of all beneficiaries. Courts review whether proposed changes are reasonable and consistent with the trust’s purpose. Thoughtful documentation of changed circumstances and demonstrated benefits of modification help persuade a court that an adjustment is appropriate.
Conflicts can arise when a trustee is unable or unwilling to perform duties, when there are allegations of improper conduct, or when trustee powers are unclear. A petition may seek removal or replacement of a trustee, clarification of authorities, or instructions for administration to resolve disputes. Courts will review the trustee’s conduct, the trust terms, and the impact on beneficiaries. Having clear legal arguments and supporting evidence helps the court make decisions that protect trust assets and support proper administration going forward.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman assists Ontario residents with trust modification petitions and related estate planning matters throughout San Bernardino County. We provide guidance on whether an amendment, reformation, or judicial petition is appropriate and assist with drafting pleadings, serving notice, and representing clients at hearings when necessary. Our approach focuses on clear communication with trustees and beneficiaries, thorough preparation of supporting evidence, and practical solutions to reduce conflict. We aim to help clients navigate the process efficiently while protecting their legal and family interests.
Clients choose our firm for careful legal analysis, familiarity with California trust and probate procedures, and a commitment to measured, client-focused representation. We work to identify the most appropriate path for adjusting a trust, whether through private amendment, mediation, or a court petition, and we prepare thorough documentation to support the chosen route. Our focus is on delivering practical results and guiding clients through complex processes with clarity, ensuring that filing requirements and notice obligations are satisfied and that the court receives persuasive, well-organized materials.
We also prioritize communication with beneficiaries and trustees to explore negotiated outcomes where possible, which can often preserve relationships and avoid protracted litigation. When court action is necessary, we prepare petitions, gather supporting evidence, and advocate effectively in hearings to achieve a fair resolution. Our goal is to minimize uncertainty and help clients implement trust modifications that withstand legal scrutiny and align with the settlor’s objectives. We handle related documents like pour-over wills and powers of attorney to maintain consistency across estate plans.
Finally, we provide practical guidance about the long-term administration implications of any modification and coordinate changes with related estate instruments such as living trusts, beneficiary designations, and health care directives. This holistic approach aims to prevent future conflicts, reduce administrative burdens, and preserve the settlor’s legacy. We are available to discuss your situation, explain potential outcomes under California law, and help you decide whether a modification petition is the right step for your family.
Our process begins with a detailed intake to understand the trust, the settlor’s intent, and the reasons for seeking change. We review documents, identify interested parties, and assess whether an amendment, negotiated settlement, or court petition is the best option. If we proceed with a petition, we prepare required pleadings, gather evidence, serve notice on beneficiaries and other interested parties, and attempt to resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation where possible. If a hearing is required, we represent clients before the court and follow up to ensure the order is implemented correctly.
The first step is an in-depth evaluation of the trust documents, any relevant correspondence, and facts that gave rise to the requested modification. We determine whether private amendment or a court petition is necessary, identify possible grounds for relief, and assess potential objections that beneficiaries might raise. This review includes checking related estate planning instruments like wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives to ensure consistency across documents. A complete understanding of the legal and factual landscape informs the strategy for any proposed changes.
We collect the original trust, any prior drafts, communications reflecting the settlor’s intent, financial records, and other supporting materials that justify the requested modification. Affidavits or declarations from individuals with firsthand knowledge may be prepared to explain circumstances or drafting mistakes. Organized documentation strengthens petitions and helps the court see a clear record of why the modification is sought. Careful evidence gathering also reduces the potential for surprises during opposition and improves the likelihood of a favorable court assessment.
We identify all beneficiaries, nominative trustees, and other interested parties who must be notified under California law. Proper notice is essential to avoid procedural defects and to give parties an opportunity to respond or negotiate. We prepare and serve required notices, follow statutory timelines, and document service to the court. This step also includes evaluating whether any parties may lack capacity and whether notice to substituted parties or guardians is necessary to protect the process and ensure fairness.
After gathering evidence and identifying interested parties, we draft the petition for modification or reformation, attaching supporting declarations and exhibits that explain the legal and factual basis for relief. The petition sets forth the requested changes and legal grounds, which might include mistake, changed circumstances, or need for clarification. We then file the petition with the appropriate superior or probate court in San Bernardino County and serve the required parties, initiating the formal process for judicial review and potential hearing.
Our team prepares legal arguments that connect the facts to applicable California statutes and case law, and we draft declarations from the settlor, trustee, or knowledgeable witnesses as appropriate. These materials explain why the requested modification aligns with the settlor’s intent and why a court order is justified. Clear, persuasive pleadings and supporting evidence reduce the likelihood of protracted disputes and help the court reach an informed decision based on a well-documented record.
Once the petition package is complete, we file it with the San Bernardino County court and ensure that all interested parties receive proper notice. Accurate filing and proof of service are essential to move the case forward without procedural challenges. We keep clients informed of filing dates, required responses, and potential timelines for hearings. If objections are filed, we evaluate them promptly and consider whether negotiation, mediation, or litigation strategy adjustments are appropriate.
After filing, the case may resolve through negotiation or require a court hearing. If parties reach agreement, we can prepare stipulated orders for the court’s approval that implement the desired modifications. When a hearing is necessary, we present evidence, cross-examine witnesses if needed, and argue why the court should grant the requested relief. Following a court order, we assist with implementing changes, updating trust records, and coordinating related documents to ensure consistent administration and compliance with the court’s directives.
Many cases benefit from negotiation or mediation which can produce faster, less adversarial outcomes. We prepare clients for discussions with parties and mediators, focusing on achievable objectives and possible compromises. Mediation sessions allow for creative solutions that a court order may not provide, and negotiated settlements can be formalized into judicial orders if desired. Preparing a strong negotiation position backed by clear evidence increases the likelihood of reaching a durable agreement that satisfies the interests of trustees and beneficiaries.
If the matter proceeds to a hearing, we present the petition, supporting evidence, and legal argument to the court, responding to any objections raised by other parties. A clear, well-documented presentation assists the judge in making a timely decision. Once the court issues an order modifying or reforming the trust, we help implement the order, update trust documents, and coordinate with trustees and beneficiaries to ensure compliance. If enforcement is necessary, we take appropriate legal steps to uphold the court’s directives.
An amendment is a private change made by the settlor when they are able to act and the trust permits amendments, while a trust modification petition is a court-requested change used when private amendment is not possible or when there is a dispute. Amendments avoid public filings and court intervention, but they require the settlor’s capacity and compliance with the trust’s amendment provisions. A petition becomes necessary when parties disagree, when ambiguity must be resolved, or when the settlor cannot validly sign an amendment. A petition provides formal judicial authority to alter or clarify trust terms and may involve notice to beneficiaries and hearings. It can also be used to reform a trust to correct mistakes or to adjust terms due to changed circumstances. The court evaluates whether the modification aligns with the settlor’s intent and applicable law, so petitions typically require more documentation and legal argument than private amendments.
A court petition is generally required when the settlor is no longer able to amend the trust, when beneficiaries or trustees dispute a proposed change, or when there is a material ambiguity or drafting error that cannot be resolved by agreement. California law sets procedural requirements for notice and proof, so when private resolution is impractical, filing a petition ensures the court can examine evidence and issue binding guidance. Courts weigh the settlor’s intent and the interests of beneficiaries when deciding whether to grant relief. Situations like trustee incapacity, conflicting beneficiary claims, or newly discovered assets that affect distributions are common reasons to seek judicial modification. Because petitions involve formal filings and potential hearings, early consultation can help determine whether a petition is necessary or whether alternative routes such as mediation or settlement offer a faster, less adversarial solution.
The timeline for a trust modification petition varies depending on the complexity of the issues, the court’s calendar, and whether parties reach an early agreement. Simple, uncontested petitions that include stipulated orders can be resolved relatively quickly, while contested matters involving multiple hearings, discovery, or substantial evidentiary disputes may take several months or longer. Filing and service requirements also influence timing, so adhering to notice deadlines is important to avoid delays. Preparing strong supporting documentation and engaging in early negotiation or mediation can shorten the process. Courts generally prefer orderly presentation of facts and legal arguments, so organized pleadings and evidence often result in more efficient resolutions. Discussing expected timelines with counsel helps set realistic expectations based on local court practices.
Notice must be provided to beneficiaries, trustees, and other interested parties identified in the trust or under California probate rules. Proper notice gives parties the opportunity to object or participate in the proceedings, and failing to provide required notice can lead to procedural challenges or delayed outcomes. Notices typically include a copy of the petition and information about upcoming hearings or deadlines for responses. In some cases, substituted service or notice to guardians or conservators may be necessary if a party lacks capacity. Counsel will identify all required recipients and ensure that service is documented to the court. Clear communication at the outset can reduce surprises and open the door to negotiated solutions where appropriate.
Beneficiaries can object to a proposed modification, and their objections may lead to contested proceedings that the court must resolve. An objection does not automatically block a modification, but the court will consider the arguments, evidence, and the settlor’s intent before deciding whether to approve the requested change. Well-prepared petitions anticipate likely objections and include supporting documentation to address potential challenges. Negotiation or mediation can often resolve beneficiary concerns without a litigated hearing. When objections are raised, counsel evaluates the merits and explores whether compromise or clarification of terms can achieve a workable outcome. Courts look for fair resolutions that respect both legal standards and beneficiary rights, so constructive engagement often improves the chances of a positive result.
Useful evidence for a reformation petition includes prior drafts of the trust, correspondence reflecting the settlor’s intent, financial records, and declarations from individuals who had direct knowledge of the settlor’s wishes. Documentary evidence that corroborates the claimed mistake or intended provision strengthens the petition and helps the court understand why reformation is appropriate. The goal is to present a clear, consistent record that supports rewriting the document to reflect actual intent. Evidence should be organized logically with clear explanations linking facts to the legal request. Affidavits or declarations from the settlor, when available, or from witnesses familiar with the settlor’s intent, are particularly helpful. Courts evaluate the totality of the record, so comprehensive documentation increases the likelihood of a favorable ruling.
A court-ordered modification may affect related estate planning documents, so it is important to review wills, beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, and health care directives for consistency. Changes to a trust could create conflicts unless other instruments are updated to reflect new arrangements. Coordinating all estate documents avoids unintended consequences and simplifies future administration for trustees and beneficiaries. After a modification is approved, counsel can help update or coordinate ancillary documents to maintain alignment across the estate plan. This comprehensive review reduces the risk of contradictory instructions and helps ensure that all instruments function together to carry out the settlor’s overall intent.
Costs for filing a trust modification petition vary depending on complexity, the need for discovery, the number of interested parties, and whether the matter is contested. Simple, uncontested petitions typically incur lower court fees and fewer attorney hours, while contested matters with hearings and extensive evidence will require more resources. The firm can provide an estimate based on the facts, anticipated filings, and whether mediation might reduce overall costs. Court fees and the cost of serving notice are also factors, and contested litigation can increase expenses substantially. Discussing budget expectations and potential cost-saving measures such as negotiation or mediation early in the process helps clients plan financially and decide on the most efficient path forward.
Yes, trustee removal can be sought through a petition when there is evidence of incapacity, serious breach of duty, misconduct, or inability to administer the trust properly. The petition should present facts demonstrating why removal is in the trust’s best interest and suggest a suitable successor trustee if available. Courts evaluate trustee conduct against fiduciary duties and may order removal when necessary to protect beneficiaries and ensure proper administration. Removal petitions require careful documentation of alleged failures or misconduct, and the court will consider less drastic remedies if appropriate. Preparing a clear factual record and proposing practical alternatives can help the court decide on a solution that preserves trust assets and administration efficiency while protecting beneficiary interests.
After the court approves a modification, the order becomes part of the trust record and directs how the trust should be administered going forward. Trustees must follow the court’s instructions, update trust documents, and notify beneficiaries of the changes. Implementation may involve transferring assets, revising administrative procedures, or updating related estate planning documents to ensure consistency across all instruments. If further disputes arise over implementation, the court retains authority to enforce its order. Counsel assists with carrying out the court’s directives, documenting compliance, and coordinating with trustees and financial institutions to effect any necessary transfers or updates. Proper follow-through ensures the settlor’s intentions are honored and administration proceeds as ordered.
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