If you are considering changes to a trust in Montara, a trust modification petition can be the pathway to update terms, correct errors, or reflect changed circumstances. The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman in San Jose assists individuals and families across San Mateo County with careful review of trust documents and the county court process. We work with clients to identify whether a petition to modify an existing trust is the most appropriate approach, explain the legal standards that apply in California, and outline realistic expectations for timing and outcomes. Our goal is to make the process clear and manageable from initial consultation through filing.
Trusts sometimes require adjustments because of life changes, tax planning needs, or drafting mistakes discovered after funding. Filing a trust modification petition in Montara involves preparing court filings, notifying interested parties, and demonstrating to the court why the proposed change is consistent with the settlor’s intent or necessary under statutory grounds. The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman provides thoughtful guidance through each stage, helping clients gather evidence, draft proposed orders, and meet procedural requirements. We place emphasis on candid communication about alternatives and potential challenges so clients can make informed decisions about moving forward.
A properly handled trust modification petition can preserve the settlor’s original intentions while responding to changed circumstances that affect beneficiaries or asset management. Through the petition process, errors and ambiguities in trust documents can be corrected before they cause disputes, and necessary updates can be made when family relationships, finances, or laws change. In many cases, a court-approved modification provides clarity and reduces the risk of future litigation among beneficiaries. The petition can also align the trust with current tax planning goals and ensure trustees have appropriate powers and instructions to administer assets effectively.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman serves clients across San Mateo County and the greater Bay Area from our San Jose office. We focus on estate planning matters including trusts, wills, powers of attorney, and petitions filed in probate and superior court. Our approach emphasizes clear communication, practical solutions, and careful preparation of court documents. We aim to help clients understand procedural timelines, the evidence needed to support a modification, and strategies to minimize conflict. For questions or to schedule a consultation, call 408-528-2827 and we will discuss your situation and available options.
A trust modification petition is a legal request submitted to a California court to change the terms or administration of an existing trust. Reasons for filing include correcting drafting mistakes, addressing changed family circumstances, removing or adding trustees, clarifying ambiguous provisions, or adapting the trust to current tax or asset ownership realities. The petition must usually explain the legal basis for modification and include evidence such as declarations, trust instrument excerpts, and notice to interested parties. California law provides specific standards and procedural requirements that must be met for a court to approve changes to a trust.
Not every requested change will be granted; courts weigh the settlor’s intent, the terms of the original trust, and whether beneficiaries will be unfairly prejudiced. The process can require negotiation with trustees and beneficiaries before filing, and sometimes a hearing is necessary if objections arise. Careful preparation increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome by ensuring that the petition addresses statutory requirements, includes necessary supporting documentation, and presents a clear explanation of why the modification promotes the settlor’s intent or corrects an identifiable issue in the trust instrument.
A trust modification petition is a formal court application seeking approval to change an existing trust’s terms or its administration. The petition sets out the requested changes and the reasons supporting them, and it must be served on all interested parties to afford them an opportunity to respond. Courts may approve modifications for reasons such as unanticipated circumstances, omissions, errors in drafting, or to effectuate tax planning objectives that were not contemplated when the trust was created. The petition process balances honoring the settlor’s intent with ensuring fairness among beneficiaries and compliance with statutes.
A successful trust modification petition typically includes a clear statement of the requested changes, supporting declarations from the petitioner or other witnesses, a redlined or clean copy of the proposed modified trust, and proof of service on all interested parties. The filing must meet local court rules and statutory notice requirements. Where allegations involve mistake or ambiguity, documentation such as correspondence, drafts, or testimony can be critical. The court may require a hearing if objections are filed. Throughout, careful attention to procedural detail reduces the risk of delay or dismissal.
Understanding common terms used in trust modification matters helps clients follow filings and court discussions. Terms include settlor, trustee, beneficiary, interested parties, decanting, reformation, clarification, conservatorship, and notice of petition. Each term has specific legal meanings and implications for who must be notified and how courts analyze proposed changes. Being familiar with these concepts allows clients to participate meaningfully in planning conversations and to respond effectively when asked for documentation or declarations to support a petition. Clear definitions also prevent misunderstandings that can complicate the process.
The settlor is the person who originally created and funded the trust and who established its terms. The settlor’s intent, as expressed in the trust document and related materials, is a central consideration when courts evaluate petitions to modify a trust. Evidence reflecting the settlor’s intent can include the trust instrument, drafts, contemporaneous correspondence, and testimony from individuals familiar with the settlor’s wishes. When the settlor is alive, in some cases their consent to a modification can simplify the process. When the settlor is deceased, courts rely more heavily on the trust document and other admissible evidence.
The trustee is the person or entity responsible for managing trust assets and carrying out the terms of the trust for the benefit of beneficiaries. Trustees have fiduciary duties to act in the beneficiaries’ best interests, follow the trust terms, and provide required accounting and notice. When a modification is sought that affects trustee powers or duties, the trustee’s role may be central to the petition. The trustee must be properly served with notice of the petition and may need to file a response or cooperate with proposed changes if they are consistent with the trust instrument and governing law.
A beneficiary is any individual or entity entitled to receive benefit from the trust under its terms. Beneficiaries have a right to notice of petitions that affect their interests, and they may object to proposed modifications they believe are inconsistent with the trust’s terms or the settlor’s intent. Courts consider beneficiary interests carefully when assessing petitions. Responsible communication among beneficiaries, trustees, and petitioners can often resolve potential disputes before a hearing is required, and the petition should address how the proposed change impacts each beneficiary to anticipate and respond to concerns.
Reformation or modification refers to court-ordered changes to the trust document to correct mistakes, misunderstandings, or to adapt to unforeseen circumstances. Reformation typically addresses errors or ambiguities to align the document with the settlor’s actual intent, while modification may change substantive provisions to address changed circumstances or practical needs. California law sets standards for when courts may grant reformation or modification, and petitions should carefully explain the legal basis, present supporting evidence, and show that the proposed change furthers the trust’s purpose without unjustly harming beneficiaries.
When considering changes to a trust, clients should weigh the petition route against alternatives such as trustee action under existing powers, informal agreements among beneficiaries, or creating an entirely new trust. Informal agreements can work when all interested parties are willing to sign amendments or consent to reformation, but they may not be legally binding without court approval. Trustee actions may allow some adjustments if the trust grants broad powers, but they can be controversial if beneficiaries object. Filing a petition provides a formal court resolution that can prevent future disputes but involves time and costs that should be balanced against the benefits.
If issues stem from minor drafting errors, typographical mistakes, or language that is merely ambiguous, a court may grant reformation limited to correcting the specific language while leaving the rest of the trust intact. Often, documentary evidence shows what the settlor intended and allows the court to make a narrow correction without broad restructuring. Parties may be able to negotiate a stipulated order reflecting the agreed correction, which can reduce time and expense. Careful review of the trust and related documents helps determine whether a narrow approach is appropriate or whether broader relief is required.
When all beneficiaries and the trustee agree on a change, it may be possible to present the court with a stipulated petition or a consented order approving the modification. Such consensus minimizes conflict and often simplifies the court’s decision because there is no disputed interest. Courts will still examine whether the change aligns with the settlor’s intent and the trust’s purpose, but an agreed modification demonstrates that interested parties have vetted the change and accept its consequences, which can speed resolution and reduce administrative burden compared to contested proceedings.
Complex disputes involving multiple beneficiaries, competing claims, unclear settlor intent, or significant asset reallocation typically require a full court petition to resolve ambiguities and secure enforceable orders. These situations often demand careful evidence gathering, detailed declarations, and strategic pleading to address likely objections. A court hearing may be necessary to allow testimony or to evaluate conflicting documentation. Comprehensive legal preparation helps present a coherent case to the court and anticipate procedural or substantive challenges that could otherwise delay a favorable outcome.
When modifications would materially change trustee authority, redirect distributions, or affect substantial assets, a formal petition provides the clearest path to enforceable changes and safeguards against later disputes. Courts scrutinize requests that alter how assets are managed or distributed to ensure fairness and adherence to the settlor’s intent. Preparing a petition in these circumstances requires precise drafting of proposed trust terms, careful notice to all interested parties, and supporting evidence to demonstrate why the change is warranted and equitable in light of the trust’s purposes.
Pursuing a comprehensive petition approach can provide finality and legal authority to changes that might otherwise be subject to future challenge. When a court approves a modification, the resulting order clarifies rights and duties, reduces the likelihood of later litigation, and provides a predictable framework for trustees and beneficiaries to follow. A well-prepared petition anticipates objections and addresses them up front, which can shorten the contested process. For matters involving substantial assets or contested interests, this thorough route often produces the most reliable long-term outcome.
A comprehensive approach also allows careful documentation of the reasons for the change and the evidence supporting it, creating a clear record for future reference by trustees, beneficiaries, and courts. This record helps avoid confusion when trustees make distributions or manage assets post-modification. Additionally, thorough legal preparation can identify alternative resolutions before litigation occurs, including mediated agreements or stipulated orders, while preserving the option of full court proceedings if necessary to protect parties’ rights and the trust’s integrity.
When a court enters an order approving a trust modification, beneficiaries and trustees gain clear, enforceable guidance about their rights and responsibilities. That clarity reduces the potential for future misunderstandings and disputes, which can be costly and emotionally draining. Court approval also enhances the trust’s credibility with financial institutions and other third parties that may require legal documentation when administering assets. The resulting certainty is particularly valuable when the trust governs significant assets or complicated distributions.
A properly litigated and court-approved modification tends to withstand later attacks because the court has reviewed evidence and made findings. This reduces the likelihood that dissatisfied beneficiaries can successfully overturn the changes absent new, substantial grounds. The process also provides a structured forum for resolving disputes so that concerns can be aired and resolved rather than simmering and escalating. For families seeking long-term stability in their estate arrangements, the protective value of a court order is often worth the upfront effort.
Before filing a petition, collect all relevant documents such as the original trust, any amendments, drafts, letters, and communications that show the settlor’s intent. Bank and brokerage statements, deeds, and trustee accountings that illuminate asset ownership and funding also help show the context for proposed changes. Organized documentation strengthens the petition and makes it easier to prepare supporting declarations. When evidence is presented clearly and coherently, the court can more readily assess the bases for the requested modification, which can improve the chances of a favorable outcome and reduce back-and-forth with opposing parties.
Open discussions with trustees and beneficiaries can sometimes produce agreements that obviate the need for a contested court petition. Where parties are willing to negotiate, a stipulated petition or consented order can streamline the process and avoid unnecessary conflict. Even when litigation becomes necessary, early communication helps identify key issues and narrow disputes, which makes preparation more focused. Transparent conversations also help manage expectations about timing, costs, and likely outcomes, enabling families to chart a practical path forward that balances legal objectives with personal relationships.
Clients pursue trust modification petitions for many reasons, including correcting drafting errors, adapting to changed family circumstances, addressing tax planning needs, updating trustee powers, or clarifying ambiguous language that creates administration difficulties. Changes in asset ownership, beneficiary deaths, divorces, or newly discovered provisions that conflict with the settlor’s intent often prompt review and potential modification. A petition provides a formal legal mechanism to document and legally authorize those adjustments, producing a court order that guides trustees and beneficiaries and reduces the risk of future disputes over the trust’s interpretation or administration.
In other situations, an amendment by trustees or a direct consent by beneficiaries may not be sufficient or available, particularly where the settlor is deceased or absent and beneficiaries disagree. A petition can also be appropriate when changes are necessary to ensure compliance with current law or to respond to changes in tax rules and financial circumstances that were not anticipated when the trust was drafted. The petition route helps secure formal, enforceable relief that protects the trust’s purpose and the parties’ long-term interests.
Circumstances commonly prompting petitions include ambiguous distribution instructions, unintended drafting oversights, missing or inconsistent trust provisions, changes in family composition, or disputes about trustee powers. Asset transfers that were not properly documented, newly discovered assets, or changes in beneficiary needs can also create a need for modification. In some cases, modern tax considerations or estate planning tools not contemplated at the time of drafting may require judicial approval to align the trust with present-day goals without violating the settlor’s intent.
Ambiguities or drafting errors in the trust document may produce conflicting interpretations that hinder administration or give rise to disputes. A petition to reform or clarify the document can present evidence that reveals what the settlor intended and request specific wording changes to resolve uncertainty. Courts will consider the surrounding circumstances and supporting documentation when deciding whether to grant reformation. Addressing such issues through the petition process can prevent costly litigation later and ensure that trustees carry out the trust consistent with the settlor’s intended purposes.
Significant family changes like marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or a beneficiary’s altered needs can prompt reconsideration of trust terms. When those circumstances materially affect how assets should be managed or distributed, parties may seek modification to reflect current realities. Courts will review modifications in light of the settlor’s objectives and the impact on beneficiaries. A well-supported petition explains the changes in circumstances, the proposed adjustments, and why the requested modification maintains fairness among beneficiaries while honoring the trust’s purpose.
Changes in tax laws, retirement account designations, or property ownership structures sometimes require trust adjustments to preserve intended benefits or to facilitate administration. A petition can address issues such as adding or clarifying tax-saving provisions, adjusting powers to manage retirement plan assets, or correcting transfer problems that affect funding. Presenting clear documentation of the financial change and the proposed solution helps the court understand the practical need for modification and how the change serves the trust’s overall goals.
Residents of Montara and surrounding communities can obtain local representation and guidance from the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman based in San Jose. We are familiar with San Mateo County court practices and the procedural requirements for trust petitions in the region. Whether you need help evaluating options, preparing petition documents, or negotiating with other parties, we provide attentive client service and practical advice tailored to your circumstances. To discuss your situation and next steps, call 408-528-2827 and we will arrange a consultation to review your trust and possible remedies.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman focuses on estate planning and probate-related matters and offers personalized attention to trust modification matters. We assist clients with document review, evidence collection, drafting of petitions and proposed orders, and representation in court when needed. Our approach seeks to balance efficient resolution with thorough preparation to protect client interests and minimize needless conflict. We emphasize clear communication so clients understand procedural steps, estimated timelines, and potential outcomes before filing a petition or pursuing alternative solutions.
Handling a trust modification petition requires attention to procedural detail and a practical strategy for addressing objections. We help clients craft petitions that are legally persuasive and supported by documentary evidence, prepare declarations that clarify the settlor’s intent, and coordinate proper notice to interested parties. For contested matters, we develop litigation strategies designed to present the strongest factual record to the court while seeking avenues for resolution where possible. Our objective is to secure enforceable outcomes that preserve the trust’s purpose and protect beneficiary interests.
Clients value a responsive practice that can guide them step by step through the petition process, from initial assessment through court approval and implementation of changes. We help trustees and beneficiaries anticipate common procedural challenges and work to resolve issues before they escalate into costly disputes. If court proceedings become necessary, we provide diligent representation and keep clients informed so they can make confident decisions. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call the office at 408-528-2827 and we will explain how we can assist with your trust modification needs.
Our process begins with a focused review of the trust document, related instruments, and the facts that motivate the requested change. After assessing whether a petition is appropriate, we prepare the required court filings, draft supporting declarations, and identify interested parties for notice. If notice leads to objections, we attempt to resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation when feasible, and we prepare for contested hearings when necessary. Throughout the process we provide clear timelines, cost estimates, and practical counsel aimed at achieving a stable, court-approved resolution.
The first step involves a detailed assessment of the trust instrument and the facts prompting modification, along with collection of documents that can support the petition. This includes locating original or amended trust documents, related correspondence, funding records, and any other evidence that clarifies the settlor’s intent. We identify all parties entitled to notice and assess potential objections. A thorough early-stage review helps shape the petition’s legal basis and determines what additional information or declarations may be required to present a persuasive case to the court.
We review the trust and any amendments in detail to identify language that may be ambiguous, inconsistent, or in need of correction. This review includes comparing draft versions, if available, and examining communications or records that shed light on the settlor’s decision-making when creating the trust. Understanding the sequence of documents and how the trust was funded allows us to craft a petition that accurately targets the legal and factual issues the court must resolve, and helps anticipate likely objections from beneficiaries or interested parties.
Supporting evidence can include witness declarations, correspondence, financial records, and other documentation that corroborates the reasons for modification. We help clients prepare declarations that explain circumstances such as drafting mistakes, changed conditions, or newly discovered facts affecting the trust. Properly prepared declarations and exhibits make it easier for the court to understand the context of the request, streamline the factual presentation at hearings, and increase the likelihood that the petition will be viewed as credible and well-supported.
Once the petition and supporting documents are prepared, we file them with the San Mateo County Superior Court and arrange service of the petition on all interested parties in accordance with California rules. Proper service is essential to avoid procedural obstacles or delays. We prepare declarations of service and monitor responses from beneficiaries or trustees. If parties consent, we may submit a stipulated petition or proposed order to expedite approval. If objections are filed, we evaluate options for resolution including negotiation, mediation, or preparing for a contested hearing.
Compliance with local court rules and statutory notice requirements is critical to moving the petition forward without technical objections. We ensure that all documents meet format and filing rules, that notice is given to beneficiaries and trustees as required, and that proof of service is accurately documented. Attention to these procedural details reduces the risk of delays or dismissal. When needed, we assist in locating parties who are difficult to contact and advise on alternative service methods that the court may permit.
After filing, responses from interested parties may include consent, requests for clarification, or objections. We analyze any responses and pursue reasonable avenues for resolution, including negotiated stipulations or settlement discussions, while preserving rights if a contested hearing is necessary. When disputes arise, we prepare pre-hearing briefs and declarations to present the strongest factual and legal record to the court. Our priority is to seek an outcome that protects client interests while minimizing delay and expense where possible.
If objections cannot be resolved by agreement, the court will set a hearing where parties present evidence and argument. We prepare witnesses, develop hearing exhibits, and advocate for the requested modification at the proceeding. If the court grants the petition, we help prepare and submit conforming documents such as a signed order and the revised trust instrument so the change can be implemented. We also advise trustees on implementing modifications and documenting actions to ensure compliance with the court’s order.
Preparing for hearing requires organizing declarations and exhibits, identifying witnesses who can testify to the settlor’s intent or relevant facts, and developing a clear presentation that explains why the modification is appropriate. We work with clients to prepare testimony and to anticipate opposing arguments so the hearing presentation is focused and persuasive. Detailed preparation helps shorten hearing time and allows the court to evaluate the petition efficiently. After the hearing, we follow up to ensure the court’s orders are properly entered and implemented.
Once the court approves a modification, trustees may need guidance to implement the order properly, update accountings, and make distributions consistent with the revised trust. We assist trustees in understanding their post-order duties and in handling related administrative steps, such as retitling assets, updating financial institution records, and documenting distributions. Clear implementation prevents confusion and reduces the risk of subsequent disputes by establishing a documented trail showing compliance with the court’s order and the trust’s revised terms.
A trust modification petition is a court filing that requests approval to change or reform an existing trust document. Petition grounds include correcting drafting mistakes, clarifying ambiguous provisions, adapting to changed circumstances, or addressing issues that affect how assets should be managed or distributed. The petition must explain the requested change and provide supporting evidence so the court can determine whether the modification aligns with the trust’s purpose and the settlor’s intent. The process requires preparation of legal documents and proper notice to interested parties. When parties agree, a stipulated petition can expedite approval. If objections arise, the matter may proceed to hearing where evidence and testimony are presented. Proper preparation and documentation improve the chance of a favorable resolution while reducing the risk of procedural setbacks or unnecessary delay.
Timing for a petition varies depending on complexity, whether parties agree, and court scheduling. Simple stipulated petitions can be resolved more quickly when there are no objections and the record shows clear grounds for modification. In contested matters, preparation, discovery, and scheduling hearings can extend the timeline. Local court calendars and procedural requirements in San Mateo County also affect how quickly a petition proceeds to hearing and resolution. Early preparation and accurate service help avoid delays caused by technical defects or missing information. Attempting to resolve disputes by agreement before filing can shorten the process, while thorough initial evidence gathering helps streamline hearings. We work with clients to set realistic expectations and provide timeline estimates based on the specifics of each case.
Notice must be given to all interested parties, which typically includes current trustees, beneficiaries named in the trust, and anyone else with a legal interest in the trust’s administration or distributions. Proper service ensures parties have the opportunity to respond or object and prevents later claims that a petition was improperly processed. Identifying and locating all interested parties is an essential step to meeting court requirements. When contact information is unavailable, courts may permit alternative service methods, but those paths require careful compliance with procedural rules. We assist clients in identifying interested parties, arranging service, and preparing declarations of service required by the court, thereby reducing the likelihood of notice-related challenges to the petition.
Beneficiaries can oppose a proposed modification by filing an objection with the court within the time allowed after notice. If objections are filed, the court may schedule a hearing to consider the evidence and arguments from all sides. Objections often arise when beneficiaries believe a modification would harm their interests or deviate from the settlor’s intent. The court evaluates the merits of objections in light of the trust document, supporting evidence, and applicable law. When objections occur, parties sometimes negotiate a settlement or stipulated resolution to avoid a contested hearing. If disputes remain, preparation for hearing includes gathering supporting documentation and witness declarations to respond to objections. Strategic negotiation and clear factual presentation can frequently reduce the scope of disputes, even when a hearing becomes necessary.
Evidence for reformation often includes draft versions of the trust, correspondence showing the settlor’s intent, declarations from witnesses with direct knowledge of the settlor’s objectives, and documents reflecting the settlor’s instructions. Financial records that show intended distributions or funding documents can also support the claim that a drafting mistake led to outcomes inconsistent with the settlor’s goals. Clear, contemporaneous documentation is particularly persuasive to the court. In the absence of direct documentary proof, credible witness testimony that reconstructs the settlor’s intent can be useful, though courts weigh such testimony carefully. Preparing organized exhibits and well-supported declarations helps the court understand why reformation is appropriate and demonstrates that the requested change accurately reflects what the settlor intended at the time the trust was created.
Court approval is required for many types of modifications, especially when the settlor is deceased, beneficiaries disagree, or the change affects trustee powers and distributions. If the settlor is alive and retains the power to amend the trust, they may be able to make changes without court involvement through the consented amendment process outlined in the trust documents. However, when unilateral changes are not possible or when disputes arise, a petition provides the formal mechanism to obtain enforceable relief. Even when informal agreement among parties seems feasible, obtaining court approval can provide stronger legal protection and prevent future challenges. Courts may also be asked to reform a trust to correct a mistake or ambiguity that cannot be resolved by private agreement, making the petition process the appropriate route to secure a clear, binding result.
Modifying a trust can have tax consequences depending on the nature of the changes and the types of assets involved. Changes affecting distributions, the timing of gifts, or ownership of certain tax-advantaged accounts may alter estate or income tax outcomes. It’s important to review proposed modifications with consideration of current tax rules and any potential reporting requirements so the change does not unintentionally create adverse tax effects. Coordinating with financial or tax advisors can help align a modification with broader estate planning goals. When tax implications are likely, the petition should explain the rationale for the change and provide documentation showing how the modification serves the trust’s purpose while accounting for tax considerations, if applicable.
Costs for filing a petition can vary based on complexity, the need for hearings, and whether the matter is contested. Court filing fees, service costs, and legal fees for drafting documents, preparing declarations, and appearing at hearings all contribute to the total. Simple, consented matters generally involve lower costs, while contested cases with extensive preparation and courtroom time are more expensive. Understanding the likely range of costs early helps clients make informed decisions about pursuing a petition versus exploring alternatives. We provide clients with transparent cost estimates and discuss options to control expenses, such as seeking stipulated resolutions or narrowing contested issues. Careful planning and early resolution efforts often reduce the overall expense by avoiding protracted litigation while still seeking an enforceable, court-approved outcome when necessary.
If the settlor is living and retained the power to amend the trust, they may be able to make changes directly through the amendment process specified in the trust document. This method is typically faster and avoids court involvement, provided the settlor’s capacity to amend is not in question and the amendment complies with the trust’s formalities. When the settlor can act and beneficiaries agree, an amendment often offers a straightforward path to update terms. If the settlor lacks capacity, is deceased, or if beneficiaries disagree, court intervention may be necessary to reform or modify the trust. In those cases, a trust modification petition is the appropriate legal tool to seek judicial authorization for the changes and to produce a binding order that governs future trust administration.
To begin, gather the trust document, any amendments, and related records that explain the issue you want to address. Contact an attorney familiar with trust petitions to schedule an initial review, during which you can discuss the facts, identify interested parties, and review likely options including petitions, amendments, or negotiated resolutions. Early evaluation helps determine whether a petition is necessary and what evidence will be required to support the requested change. During the initial consultation, plan to provide as much documentation as possible and to describe family or financial changes that motivate the request. From there, the attorney can outline a recommended strategy, provide an estimate of likely costs and timelines, and begin preparing the petition and notice documents if moving forward. For assistance in Montara and San Mateo County matters, call 408-528-2827 to arrange a consultation.
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