If you are considering changing the terms of a trust in Brisbane or elsewhere in San Mateo County, a trust modification petition may be the appropriate legal step. The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman assists clients with petitions to modify revocable and sometimes irrevocable trusts where the law allows. This process involves filing formal requests in probate court, gathering supporting documentation, and making persuasive legal arguments to demonstrate why a modification is warranted. We focus on clear communication about potential outcomes, timelines, and how changes may affect beneficiaries, trustees, and the overall estate plan to help you make informed decisions about trust adjustments.
A trust modification petition can address changed circumstances such as beneficiary needs, tax considerations, or errors in the original trust document. Whether the trust was created by a spouse, parent, or another family member, a petition asks the court to authorize changes while balancing the rights of all interested parties. The petition process can involve negotiation with other beneficiaries before or during court proceedings to minimize conflict and delay. Our approach is to explain procedural steps, potential risks, and alternative options like trust amendment or decanting when those routes are available, ensuring you understand the practical implications of seeking modification.
Filing a trust modification petition can preserve the intent of the grantor while accommodating significant life changes that were unforeseen when the trust was drafted. This legal remedy can correct drafting errors, address changes in beneficiary circumstances, respond to tax law updates, or resolve issues where the original trust no longer serves the grantor’s objectives. By pursuing a petition, interested parties seek court authorization for alterations that protect assets and clarify successor arrangements. A well-prepared petition can reduce future disputes, help maintain continuity in asset management, and adapt the trust to current family and financial realities without resorting to full probate or litigation over the trust’s validity.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman provides estate planning and trust services across San Jose and the broader Bay Area, including Brisbane. Our practice handles trust formation, administration, and contested matters such as modification petitions. We emphasize personalized attention, practical guidance, and procedural accuracy when preparing filings for probate court. For clients facing complex family circumstances or evolving asset portfolios, we focus on clear explanations of options like trust amendment, decanting, or court-supervised modification. Our office aims to minimize disruption to family relationships while protecting the integrity of the estate plan and the interests of trustees and beneficiaries alike.
A trust modification petition is a formal request submitted to the probate court to change the terms of an existing trust. Grounds for a petition vary but commonly include unanticipated changes in beneficiary needs, clerical errors, ambiguous language, or legal developments affecting the trust’s operation. The petition must explain why a modification better reflects the grantor’s intent or serves equitable purposes and identify all interested parties who must be notified. Courts consider the trust document, evidence of the grantor’s intentions, and potential objections from beneficiaries before authorizing changes, which can be modest clarifications or more substantive reconfigurations depending on the circumstances.
Petition proceedings generally involve collecting relevant trust documents, drafting a clear statement of proposed changes, and assembling proof such as declarations, medical records or financial statements when appropriate. Interested parties may negotiate settlements or contest the petition, and the court will evaluate whether the requested modification is consistent with California law and the trust’s overall purpose. The process can be collaborative where beneficiaries agree or adversarial when disputes arise. Timely notice and careful procedural compliance are essential to avoid delays and ensure the court has the information needed to make a reasoned decision.
A trust modification petition requests judicial permission to change a trust’s provisions when nonjudicial methods are inadequate or unavailable. The petition outlines the specific modifications sought, whether to correct mistakes, clarify language, alter trustee powers, or change beneficiary distributions. The court examines the petition in light of statutory rules that protect grantor intent and beneficiary rights. In some cases, a trustee or a beneficiary may initiate the process with supporting evidence that the change serves a legitimate purpose. The goal is to realign the trust’s terms with current realities while preserving equitable treatment of all parties.
Successful trust modification petitions rely on precise drafting, full disclosure to interested parties, and supporting documentation that substantiates the need for change. The petition should identify the trust instrument, state the proposed amendments, and explain legal and factual grounds for modification. The court process includes filing the petition, serving notice, allowing time for responses, and potentially holding a hearing where evidence is presented. When beneficiaries reach an agreement, the court may approve stipulated modifications. Where disputes persist, the court will balance competing interests while applying relevant California statutes and case law to reach a resolution.
Understanding common terms helps demystify the petition process. Definitions such as grantor, trustee, beneficiary, amendment, decanting, and revocation clarify roles and options. Knowing what a pour-over will, certification of trust, or a Heggstad petition covers helps parties select the right approach when changes are needed. A glossary can also explain procedural terms like notice, hearing, petition, and order, enabling better participation in court proceedings. Familiarity with these concepts reduces uncertainty and equips clients to make informed choices during review and negotiation of proposed trust modifications.
The grantor, sometimes called the settlor, is the person who creates and funds the trust and sets its terms. The grantor’s intentions, which may be reflected in trust documents, letters of intent, or other evidence, are central to petitions seeking modifications. When a grantor is alive and of sound mind, they often have authority to amend or revoke a revocable trust directly. When the grantor is deceased or incapacitated, courts examine the trust instrument and surrounding circumstances to determine whether modifications align with the original objectives and equitable considerations. Establishing the grantor’s intent is a primary focus when courts evaluate petitions.
An amendment changes terms within the existing trust document and is usually executed by the grantor if permitted by the trust. Decanting is a method where trust assets are transferred into a new trust with different terms under statutory authority, often used to correct defects or enhance administration. When those nonjudicial options are not possible—such as when a grantor lacks capacity or the trust prohibits amendments—a trust modification petition to the court may be necessary. The petition seeks judicial approval for modifications that otherwise cannot be achieved directly, while balancing trustee and beneficiary interests under California law.
Beneficiaries are individuals or entities entitled to benefits under the trust. Their rights can include receiving distributions, objecting to proposed changes, and seeking court review of trustee actions. When a petition requests modification, beneficiaries must be notified and given an opportunity to respond, negotiate, or contest the request. The court considers beneficiary interests carefully, especially when proposed changes could materially affect their distributions or the trust’s protective provisions. Ensuring transparent communication and fair treatment of beneficiaries helps reduce conflicts during modification proceedings.
A trustee manages trust assets and owes fiduciary duties to beneficiaries, including duties of loyalty, prudence, and impartiality. Petitioning to modify a trust may involve changes to trustee powers, succession rules, or administrative provisions. The court evaluates whether proposed adjustments align with the trustee’s obligations and the trust’s purposes. When trustees petition for modification, they must demonstrate that the change supports sound administration or rectifies an issue affecting the trust’s operation. Courts are mindful of preserving fiduciary duties while allowing reasonable changes that serve the trust’s long-term goals.
When a trust needs change, options include direct amendment by the grantor, decanting under statute, negotiated settlement among beneficiaries, or seeking court approval through a petition. Nonjudicial methods are often faster and less public, but they require applicable authority in the trust document or under state law and agreement among relevant parties. A petition becomes necessary when parties disagree, the trust contains limitations, or when the grantor lacks capacity. Selecting the right path depends on legal constraints, the nature of desired changes, and the relationships among beneficiaries and trustees, with each route carrying different risks, timelines, and costs.
If the grantor is alive and the trust document expressly allows amendments, a direct amendment may be the simplest path. This approach involves drafting an amendment that clearly states the intended changes, having the required signatures and notarial acknowledgments, and keeping formal records. It avoids court involvement and public filings, reducing cost and delay. However, it requires that the grantor has the capacity to act and that the amendment complies with the trust’s own amendment procedures. When these conditions are met, a straightforward amendment can efficiently update beneficiary designations, trustee powers, or administrative terms.
When all beneficiaries and trustees agree on a modification, they may execute a settlement agreement or consent to a nonjudicial change such as decanting when permitted. This collaborative route can preserve relationships and expedite implementation because it avoids contested litigation and court supervision. Agreements should be carefully documented to ensure enforceability and compliance with tax and trust law. Even when parties agree, seeking clear written consent and recording the new terms protects against future disputes and provides a transparent record of the changed arrangement.
If the grantor is incapacitated or deceased, direct amendment is no longer possible and nonjudicial alternatives may be limited. In these situations, interested parties may need to petition the probate court seeking authorization for changes. The court reviews whether modifications reflect the grantor’s intent and are equitable to beneficiaries. Petitions require careful factual presentation, including medical and documentary evidence when relevant, and must comply with notice rules. Courts are cautious in altering trust terms absent clear justification, so comprehensive legal support helps frame the petition persuasively and procedurally correctly.
Trust disputes, conflicting beneficiary interests, or complex asset issues may necessitate a petition to resolve disagreements and secure lasting authority for changes. When parties cannot reach a consensus through negotiation or when statutory decanting is unavailable, the court is the neutral decision-maker empowered to approve or deny modifications. Preparing for contested proceedings involves assembling evidence, anticipating objections, and developing legal arguments that address fiduciary duties and trust purposes. This process benefits from careful planning to protect client interests while presenting a clear case for the requested changes.
Seeking court approval for trust modifications provides legal finality and a publicly enforceable order that clarifies the trust’s new terms. When properly documented and authorized by the court, modifications reduce the risk of future challenges by disgruntled beneficiaries and create a clear judicial record of the reasons for change. Court involvement can also help resolve complex allocation or tax concerns by ensuring that adjustments comply with applicable statutes and case law. For families facing complicated dynamics, a court-ordered modification can provide stability and assurance that administration may proceed without recurring disputes.
A comprehensive approach also ensures procedural safeguards, including notice to all interested parties and an opportunity for the court to weigh competing arguments. This can be particularly important when the proposed changes affect minor beneficiaries, special needs arrangements, or irrevocable structures. The resulting court order can specify revised trustee powers, distribution schedules, or other provisions that improve administration and reflect current realities. While court petitions can involve more time and expense than nonjudicial methods, the durability and enforceability of the outcome often justify the investment when long-term clarity is the priority.
A court-approved modification yields a binding order that confirms the validity of the changes and reduces the likelihood of future litigation. Courts take care to record a reasoned basis for approval, which can protect trustees and beneficiaries from later challenges. Legal certainty is especially valuable for trust arrangements involving business interests, complex assets, or intergenerational planning where ambiguity could trigger disputes. While obtaining judicial approval may require additional time, the resulting clarity often prevents costly contested proceedings down the road and allows trustees to administer the trust with confidence.
When modifications affect minor beneficiaries, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable interests, court oversight provides an extra layer of review to ensure fair treatment. The court can evaluate whether proposed distributions, trustee powers, or protective provisions serve the beneficiaries’ best interests given the trust’s purpose. This oversight can prevent inadvertent harm from unilateral changes and create enforceable terms that uphold long-term protections. In cases involving special needs trusts, pet trusts, or retirement plan trusts, careful judicial consideration helps preserve the original protective intent while permitting necessary adjustments.
Begin by gathering all pertinent trust documents, related wills, certifications of trust, financial statements, and any correspondence that sheds light on the grantor’s intent. Medical records or declarations may be necessary to demonstrate changed capacity or circumstances. Early document collection helps identify whether nonjudicial remedies are possible and supports a well-substantiated petition if court action is required. Organized documentation also facilitates communication among beneficiaries, reduces discovery disputes, and shortens preparation time, enabling a smoother filing and clearer presentation of the factual basis for the requested modification.
Evaluate how proposed modifications will affect long-term asset protection, tax liabilities, and beneficiary entitlements before finalizing any changes. Some alterations may trigger unintended tax consequences or affect eligibility for public benefits for certain beneficiaries. Consulting with financial or tax advisors and ensuring the petition addresses these concerns helps the court see that the requested modification advances the trust’s objectives without imposing hidden burdens. Thoughtful planning and clear documentation of anticipated impacts improve the likelihood that the court will approve a carefully tailored modification.
Consider a petition when the original trust terms no longer align with the grantor’s intentions or current circumstances, such as changes in family structure, beneficiary needs, or tax law. A petition may rectify drafting mistakes, clarify ambiguous provisions, or adapt trustee powers to modern administration requirements. It is also appropriate where a nonjudicial amendment is impossible because the grantor lacks capacity or the trust expressly limits amendments. Thoughtful timing and a clear factual record strengthen the case for modification and help avoid unnecessary conflict among interested parties.
A petition may also be warranted to resolve disputes concerning distributions, to implement updated asset management strategies, or to protect vulnerable beneficiaries. When beneficiaries cannot reach agreement or when changes affect irrevocable arrangements, court supervision can provide a neutral forum to evaluate competing interests and authorize equitable adjustments. Engaging legal assistance early ensures compliance with procedural requirements and helps craft a petition that addresses potential objections, increasing the likelihood of a decisive resolution that supports long-term trust administration.
Typical reasons for filing trust modification petitions include unforeseen beneficiary needs, errors or ambiguities in the trust document, changed tax or financial conditions, incapacity of the grantor, or disputes over trustee authority. Life events such as divorce, remarriage, incapacitation, or a beneficiary’s special needs may create a mismatch between the trust’s provisions and current realities. When simpler remedies are unavailable or disagreements arise, petitioning the court provides a structured path to resolve issues and align the trust with present objectives while safeguarding the interests of all parties involved.
A beneficiary’s changed circumstances, such as financial hardship, disability, or changes in dependency status, can justify revisiting distribution provisions. When a trust no longer provides appropriate support or protection, a modification petition may be pursued to tailor distributions or add protective measures like special needs provisions. The petition should document the changed circumstances and propose amendments that preserve the trust’s purpose while addressing the beneficiary’s new needs. Courts consider evidence showing why the original terms are no longer suitable and whether the proposed change equitably benefits the parties involved.
Errors or ambiguous language in a trust instrument can lead to confusion or disputes over interpretation. A petition can clarify intent, correct typographical mistakes, or resolve contradictory provisions that hinder administration. Demonstrating the grantor’s likely intention through extrinsic evidence—such as draft documents, correspondence, or contemporaneous notes—can help the court approve corrective modifications. Clear, remedial language in the petition supports an efficient resolution and reduces the risk of future litigation stemming from unresolved ambiguities.
Significant changes in tax law or regulatory requirements can make original trust structures less effective or create unintended tax liabilities. A petition can adjust trust terms to respond to new legal realities, improve tax efficiency, or reallocate assets in a manner consistent with the grantor’s goals. Supporting the petition with financial analysis and legal rationale helps the court understand why modification better serves the trust’s purposes. Addressing tax implications proactively in the petition reduces future complications for trustees and beneficiaries during administration.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman serves clients in Brisbane and throughout San Mateo County with trust modification petitions and related estate planning work. We assist with preparing petitions, coordinating notice to beneficiaries, and representing clients in probate court when necessary. Our approach focuses on practical solutions that honor the grantor’s intent and protect beneficiary interests, while explaining procedural options like amendment, decanting, or court petition. If you are evaluating whether a modification is appropriate, we provide straightforward guidance on possible outcomes and the steps involved to pursue a durable resolution.
Selecting legal representation for a trust modification petition means choosing a firm familiar with California probate practice and trust law. Our office brings experience in trust administration, contested matters, and alternate remedies such as Heggstad petitions and pour-over will adjustments. We prioritize meticulous preparation of petitions, adherence to notice and procedural rules, and clear client communication throughout the process. This careful approach helps present a persuasive case to the court while seeking to preserve relationships among trustees and beneficiaries where possible.
We assist clients in evaluating whether nonjudicial remedies might resolve issues more quickly and confidentially, and when court action is required we develop a strategic plan tailored to the specific circumstances, including potential evidence and negotiation points. Our representation includes drafting pleadings, coordinating required filings, and explaining expected timelines and costs so clients understand what to expect. By focusing on practical, legally sound solutions we aim to achieve modifications that support the trust’s intent and administration.
Communication and responsiveness are central to our client relationships. We maintain regular updates, outline which documents are needed, and explain the legal standards the court will apply. For clients in Brisbane and the greater Bay Area, we provide local knowledge of probate procedures and a commitment to protecting client interests. If beneficiaries express concerns, we pursue negotiated resolutions when feasible and prepare thoroughly for court proceedings when necessary to secure a stable and enforceable outcome.
Our process begins with an initial review of the trust documents and relevant background to determine feasible options, followed by a recommendation tailored to the client’s objectives. If a petition is appropriate, we prepare the necessary paperwork, gather supporting evidence, and handle service and filing with the probate court. We communicate with beneficiaries and trustees and attempt negotiated solutions where possible to avoid contested hearings. If litigation is required, we represent clients at hearings and work toward a court order that implements the requested modification while protecting beneficiaries’ rights and the trust’s purpose.
We begin by reviewing the trust instrument, related estate planning documents, and any relevant communications or drafts that illuminate the grantor’s intent. This review identifies whether the trust permits amendment or decanting, the potential for beneficiary agreement, and any procedural obstacles. We assess legal grounds for a petition if nonjudicial options are unavailable or impractical. Accurate, thorough document analysis is essential to determine the strongest path forward, whether that means preparing a precise amendment or drafting a petition supported by factual evidence.
Gathering documents such as the original trust, amendments, financial statements, medical records, and communications helps establish the factual basis for modification. Evidence demonstrating changed circumstances or the grantor’s intent strengthens a petition. Early collection reduces delays and ensures the petition addresses likely objections. We help clients identify and compile this material, organize it for court filing, and prepare declarations or exhibits that present the facts clearly and credibly to the court and other interested parties.
Before pursuing a petition, we evaluate whether amendment, beneficiary agreement, or statutory decanting can achieve the desired change. These nonjudicial solutions are often quicker and private but require legal authority and, in many cases, consensus among involved parties. We explain the pros and cons of each route, including potential tax and administrative impacts, to help clients choose the most appropriate path. When nonjudicial options are not feasible, we proceed with preparation for a court petition backed by organized evidence.
Preparing a trust modification petition involves drafting a concise statement of requested changes, assembling supporting exhibits, and drafting declarations that explain the factual and legal basis for modification. We ensure compliance with California probate code requirements for notice and filing and identify all interested parties who must be served. Clear, well-organized pleadings reduce the likelihood of procedural objections and help the court understand the proposed amendments. Timely filing and proper service are essential to preserve rights and move the matter forward efficiently.
Once filed, the petition must be served on all interested parties, who are given an opportunity to respond. We handle service logistics and monitor responses, engaging in communications or negotiations as appropriate. If beneficiaries file objections, we assess whether settlement is possible or whether the matter requires hearing. Effective notice and proactive case management often minimize delay and foster opportunities for resolution without a contested hearing, though we prepare to address objections through legal argument and evidence if necessary.
Throughout the petition process we explore settlement options and alternative dispute resolution to avoid protracted litigation. Where beneficiaries and trustees can reach agreement on revised terms, we draft and present a stipulated order for the court to approve. Settlement preserves privacy and reduces cost, while a stipulated court order provides enforceability. If settlement is not achievable, we prepare to present the petition at hearing with a focus on factual clarity and legal support to secure the court’s authorization for modification.
If the matter proceeds to hearing, we present evidence and legal arguments that justify the requested modification while addressing any objections. The court will evaluate whether the proposed change supports the trust’s purpose and treats beneficiaries fairly. If the judge approves the petition, the court issues an order that amends the trust or authorizes the trustee to implement the agreed changes. The order becomes part of the public record and guides future administration, providing clarity and legal backing for trustees and beneficiaries.
After receiving a court order, trustees must implement the changes as directed and update trust records. This may involve transferring assets, revising distribution schedules, or adjusting trustee powers according to the order’s terms. Proper implementation ensures that the modification has its intended effect and reduces the risk of future disputes. We assist with drafting follow-up documents, updating certifications of trust, and advising trustees on administrative steps needed to comply with the court’s directives and facilitate smooth ongoing trust administration.
Occasionally, post-order questions arise concerning interpretation or implementation of the court’s directives. We advise trustees and beneficiaries on compliance, respond to subsequent inquiries, and, when necessary, return to court to seek clarification or enforcement. Proactive communication and careful recordkeeping after a modification reduces misunderstandings and helps ensure the trustee administers the trust in accordance with the updated terms. When disputes persist, follow-up motions can protect client interests and maintain the integrity of the trust administration.
A trust modification petition is a formal request submitted to probate court asking the judge to change the terms of an existing trust when nonjudicial methods are not feasible or when parties disagree. Common reasons for filing include correcting drafting errors, addressing changed beneficiary needs, or responding to legal or tax developments that render original terms impractical. The petition must identify the trust, state the requested changes, and explain why modification serves the trust’s purpose and treats beneficiaries equitably. The court evaluates the petition based on California law and the evidence presented, which may include the trust document, declarations, and supporting records. If the judge approves the petition, the court issues an order authorizing the modification, which guides trustees and beneficiaries during administration and helps prevent future disputes over the trust’s terms.
Yes, many trust changes can be made without court involvement when the grantor is alive and the trust document permits amendments or when beneficiaries and trustees agree and decanting is available under statute. Direct amendments and decanting are often faster, private, and less expensive than petitioning the court. However, these nonjudicial options require appropriate authority in the trust instrument or statutory authorization and consensus among relevant parties. When the grantor lacks capacity, the trust prohibits amendment, or beneficiaries disagree, a petition becomes necessary. Choosing between nonjudicial methods and a petition requires careful assessment of legal authority, potential tax effects, and the willingness of interested parties to cooperate.
California probate procedures require notice to all interested parties when filing a trust modification petition. Interested parties can include beneficiaries, trustees, and certain close relatives or creditors, depending on the trust’s terms and the nature of the requested changes. Proper service ensures parties have an opportunity to respond, object, or negotiate before the court rules on the petition. Failure to provide required notice can lead to delays or procedural challenges, so thorough identification and timely service are critical. Our office assists in determining who must be notified and handles the logistics of service to meet statutory requirements and move the matter forward efficiently.
The time to resolution varies based on complexity, notice periods, and whether the petition is contested. Simple petitions with cooperative beneficiaries may be resolved in a few months, while contested matters or those requiring extensive evidence can take longer, sometimes approaching a year or more. Scheduling hearings and response times set by the court also influence the timeline. Early organization, prompt notice, and efforts to negotiate can shorten the process. When court hearings are needed, preparing comprehensive declarations and exhibits helps present a clear case and may expedite the judge’s decision, reducing the overall time to implementation.
Supporting evidence for a petition typically includes the original trust and any amendments, declarations from parties explaining changed circumstances or intent, and documentary records such as financial statements or medical records when capacity is an issue. Correspondence, draft documents, and contemporaneous notes may help demonstrate the grantor’s intent or clarify ambiguous language in the trust. A well-documented factual record strengthens the petition and helps address anticipated objections. We assist clients in identifying and compiling the most relevant materials, preparing declarations, and organizing exhibits so the court can readily understand the basis for the requested modification.
Yes, court filings and the resulting orders are part of the public record, which means the terms of a court-approved modification may become publicly accessible. This contrasts with nonjudicial changes such as direct amendments executed by a living grantor or private agreements among beneficiaries that remain confidential. When privacy is a concern, parties should evaluate whether nonjudicial avenues like amendment or decanting are available and appropriate. If court action is necessary, we explain which documents will become public and help minimize unnecessary disclosure while complying with procedural requirements.
Beneficiaries have the right to contest a trust modification petition by filing objections or appearing at the court hearing to oppose the requested changes. Objections commonly assert that the modification contradicts the grantor’s intent, unfairly prejudices certain beneficiaries, or lacks sufficient factual support. The court considers these objections when evaluating whether the petition should be granted. Because contests can prolong proceedings and increase cost, early negotiation and transparent communication often reduce the likelihood of formal disputes. When objections arise, thorough preparation and clear presentation of evidence and legal arguments are essential to address challenges effectively.
Alternatives to a modification petition include direct amendment by the grantor when authorized, decanting assets into a new trust where statute permits, and negotiated settlement agreements among beneficiaries. These options are typically faster, private, and less costly, but they require the necessary authority and, in many cases, agreement among interested parties. Evaluating alternatives involves analyzing the trust’s amendment provisions, statutory decanting rules, and the likelihood of beneficiary cooperation. When these routes are unavailable or unsuccessful, a court petition becomes the mechanism to obtain a binding modification under judicial supervision.
Costs vary depending on whether the matter is resolved nonjudicially, involves negotiated settlement, or proceeds to contested court hearings. Nonjudicial amendments and agreed settlements are generally less expensive. Filing a petition and litigating objections can increase attorney time and court costs, particularly when hearings and substantial evidence are required. We provide an initial assessment of likely steps and associated costs so clients can weigh options. Early planning, document preparation, and efforts to reach agreement among parties often reduce overall expense and lead to a more efficient resolution of the requested modification.
To start the process, gather the trust document, any amendments, and related estate planning instruments, and contact our office to schedule an initial consultation. We will review the materials, discuss the circumstances prompting the requested change, and explain whether nonjudicial alternatives may suffice or if a petition is advisable. Clear documentation and an organized timeline help us assess the best route forward. If a petition is appropriate, we will outline the steps, required documents, notice obligations, and expected timelines. From there we prepare the petition, handle service and filing, and represent your interests through negotiation or court proceedings to pursue a durable and enforceable modification.
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