A trust modification petition can help individuals and families adapt estate plans when circumstances change. At the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman in San Jose, we assist clients who need to revise the terms of an existing trust while respecting the original intent of the trustmaker. Whether the change involves beneficiaries, distributions, or administrative provisions, a court-approved modification provides legal clarity and enforceability. This guide explains what a trust modification petition involves, common reasons people pursue modifications, and how the process typically unfolds in Santa Clara County. If you are unsure whether a modification is appropriate, a consultation can clarify options and next steps.
When life events alter family dynamics or asset values, a trust that once fit a family’s needs may no longer reflect current goals. Trust modification petitions offer a route to adjust provisions such as trusteeship, distribution timing, or tax-related terms. The petition process is designed to address ambiguities, correct drafting mistakes, or respond to changed circumstances like remarriage, births, or the need to provide for a beneficiary with support needs. Filing a petition with the probate court creates a formal record of the requested changes and seeks a judicial order allowing the trust to operate as revised under California law and local court practice.
Pursuing a trust modification petition can prevent future disputes and reduce uncertainty for beneficiaries and trustees. Modifying a trust through the court helps ensure that changes are legally recognized and less vulnerable to challenge after the trustmaker’s death. Benefits include clarifying intent, updating administrative provisions, correcting errors, and addressing changes in circumstances that affect how assets should be distributed. A properly handled modification can preserve family relationships by providing transparent rules for distribution and management, and it can align the trust with current tax rules and financial realities to avoid unintended results or administrative complications.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman focus on estate planning and trust-related matters for families and individuals across San Jose and surrounding areas. Our approach emphasizes careful analysis of the trust document, a practical assessment of the issues prompting a modification request, and clear communication with trustees and beneficiaries. We assist clients in preparing petitions, compiling supporting evidence, and navigating local court procedures to pursue a modification that reflects the trustmaker’s intentions. Our goal is to provide straightforward guidance that helps clients make informed decisions and move forward with confidence in their estate plan.
A trust modification petition asks the probate court to permit changes to an existing trust when the trustmaker is unable or unwilling to amend the document directly or when a court-ordered correction is necessary. Grounds for filing include rectifying mistakes, clarifying ambiguous language, accommodating changed circumstances, or implementing a trustmaker’s intent that was not captured in the original drafting. The petition process often requires notice to interested parties, factual evidence supporting the requested change, and possible court hearings. Understanding these steps and the legal standards involved can help trustees and beneficiaries prepare effectively for the process ahead.
Not every requested change will be granted, and courts weigh factors like the trustmaker’s probable intent, the feasibility of the proposed modification, and potential prejudice to beneficiaries. In California, a petition to modify a trust may proceed under statutes that permit modification by agreement of beneficiaries or by judicial order when the trust terms are unclear or unworkable. Preparing a clear factual record, gathering relevant documents such as the original trust, amendments, and related correspondence, and explaining why the modification serves the trust’s purpose increases the likelihood that the court will approve the requested relief.
A trust modification petition is a formal request filed in probate court asking for approval to change or clarify the terms of a living trust. This process is used when the trustmaker cannot amend the document directly, when a drafting error needs correction, or when unforeseen circumstances make the original provisions impractical. The petition sets out the reasons for the proposed change and includes legal authority and supporting evidence. The court evaluates whether the modification aligns with the trustmaker’s intent, protects beneficiary interests, and complies with statutory requirements before issuing an order to implement the change.
Filing a trust modification petition typically involves preparing a detailed petition, serving notice to interested parties, submitting supporting documentation, and attending a court hearing if required. The petition should explain the legal and factual basis for the requested change, provide copies of the trust and any amendments, and identify all beneficiaries and trustees. Courts will consider evidence of the trustmaker’s intent, the reason for the requested change, and any objections from beneficiaries. Successful petitions result in a court order that formally revises the trust, ensuring the modification is enforceable and clearly recorded in the case file.
Understanding common terms associated with trust modification helps trustees and beneficiaries follow the process and the court’s reasoning. Important concepts include the trustmaker’s intent, beneficiary consent, material mistakes in drafting, substantially changed circumstances, and the role of the court in reviewing petitions. Recognizing these elements can make it easier to assess whether a modification is appropriate and to prepare the documentary and testimonial evidence the court may require. Clear terminology also aids in communicating with other parties and in drafting a precise petition that addresses legal standards.
The trustmaker is the person who created and funded the trust and whose intentions determine how the trust should operate. Courts evaluate the trustmaker’s intent when considering a modification petition, looking to the trust document, related instructions, and surrounding circumstances. If the trustmaker is alive but incapacitated, a petition may be necessary to make changes that the trustmaker cannot sign. Evidence of the trustmaker’s objectives, preferences, or mistakes in drafting is often vital to persuading the court that a proposed modification reflects the trustmaker’s true wishes.
Beneficiary consent refers to the agreement of those who stand to receive benefits under a trust to a proposed modification. In some cases, unanimous consent of beneficiaries can allow a trust to be modified without court intervention, depending on the trust terms and applicable laws. When beneficiaries do not all agree, a petition to the court may be necessary. Courts take beneficiary consent seriously, and documentation of agreement or objection plays a key role in the court’s decision-making, especially when the change could affect distribution rights or asset control.
Rectification is a legal remedy that asks the court to correct mistakes in the trust document so that it reflects what the trustmaker originally intended. This remedy is used when there is convincing evidence that the written trust fails to capture the trustmaker’s actual terms due to drafting errors or omissions. The court requires clear proof of the intended terms and the nature of the mistake. Successful rectification aligns the trust instrument with the trustmaker’s true intent and can prevent disputes among beneficiaries over an uncertain provision.
Changed circumstances describe material events or developments occurring after a trust is created that make original provisions impractical, inequitable, or inconsistent with the trustmaker’s goals. Examples include significant changes in family relationships, the birth of new family members, the need to provide for a beneficiary with special needs, or major changes in asset composition. Courts consider whether the changed circumstances justify modification and whether the proposed adjustment better serves the trustmaker’s underlying objectives while protecting beneficiary interests.
There are multiple ways to address needed changes to a trust: direct amendment by the trustmaker, beneficiary agreement, or a court-ordered modification. Direct amendment is the simplest when the trustmaker is capable and willing to act. Beneficiary agreement can work when all interested parties consent and the trust allows such actions. A trust modification petition becomes necessary when the trustmaker cannot lawfully amend the trust or when disagreements or legal ambiguities require judicial resolution. Choosing the right path depends on the facts, the trust document, and the parties’ willingness to cooperate.
Minor drafting errors or unclear language in a trust may be resolvable by beneficiary agreement or by preparing a restatement if the trustmaker can approve changes. When the issue involves a small correction or clarification that does not alter substantive benefits, interested parties may reach a consensus and execute a written agreement or amendment consistent with the trust terms. This approach can save time and cost compared with a court petition, provided that all required parties agree and the trust’s formalities are observed so the revised language is valid and enforceable under California law.
When every beneficiary and trustee agrees in writing to a proposed change, certain trust provisions can be updated without involving the court, depending on the trust document and state law. Such consensus-driven approaches are most effective when all parties understand the consequences and are willing to sign formal amendments or settlement agreements that clearly state the new terms. Proper documentation and careful adherence to legal formalities help ensure that the agreed changes will be recognized in the future and minimize the risk of later disputes or challenges.
Complex modifications or situations where beneficiaries disagree require detailed legal analysis and careful procedural work to protect interests and present a coherent case to the court. When trust provisions interact with tax rules, retirement accounts, or special needs planning, a comprehensive approach helps identify consequences and craft appropriate relief. The process may involve gathering evidence, preparing declarations, and managing communications with multiple parties. A thorough review minimizes the risk of unintended consequences and improves the prospects of achieving a modification that aligns with the trustmaker’s intent while preserving beneficiary rights.
Significant family changes, such as remarriage, divorce, births, deaths, or the need to provide for a beneficiary with ongoing care needs, can make previously sound trust terms obsolete or inequitable. A comprehensive review looks beyond the single requested change to consider how proposed modifications affect the overall estate plan, tax consequences, and long-term asset management. This broader perspective helps craft modifications that address current realities while maintaining consistency with the trustmaker’s overarching wishes and reducing the potential for future conflicts among beneficiaries.
A comprehensive approach to a trust modification petition helps ensure that the proposed change fits within the full context of an estate plan and does not create new legal or tax problems. By reviewing all related documents, considering beneficiary impacts, and forecasting administrative consequences, a thorough strategy reduces the likelihood of future litigation and helps clarify trustee duties. This methodical process promotes stability and predictability for beneficiaries, preserves the trustmaker’s intent, and provides a documented court order that can prevent ambiguity after the trustmaker’s incapacity or death.
Taking the time to address related issues—such as pour-over wills, powers of attorney, and beneficiary designations—when seeking a trust modification can prevent inconsistencies across an estate plan. Coordinating changes helps ensure that distributions proceed as intended and that assets are handled efficiently. Additionally, a comprehensive approach can identify opportunities to simplify administration or improve clarity for trustees, ultimately saving time and expense for loved ones tasked with managing the trust in the future.
One key benefit of a comprehensive modification is achieving clear, unambiguous trust language that reduces the likelihood of disputes among beneficiaries and trustees. Clear court-approved changes provide a judicial record explaining the basis for the modification and how the trust should operate going forward. This clarity can ease administration, prevent misunderstandings, and provide peace of mind that the trust will be administered according to a documented plan. Clear terms also support trustees in carrying out duties without fear of future challenges.
A thorough review and modification process allows the trust to be aligned with present-day family circumstances and financial realities, such as changes in asset composition, new family members, or evolving care needs. By addressing how assets should be managed and distributed now, modifications help ensure that the trust continues to serve its intended purpose. This alignment protects beneficiaries’ interests and can reduce the need for additional legal action later, providing a smoother path for administration when the trust becomes active.
Collecting complete and well-organized documents strengthens a modification petition. Include the original trust, all amendments, related wills or pour-over wills, powers of attorney, beneficiary designations, correspondence that reflects the trustmaker’s intentions, and financial records showing asset ownership. Detailed evidence helps the court understand why the change is necessary and how it aligns with the trustmaker’s objectives. Presenting a clear timeline and contextual documents reduces ambiguity, makes the petition easier to evaluate, and supports efficient resolution of any contested issues between beneficiaries or trustees.
When seeking to modify a trust, consider how the proposed change will interact with other estate planning documents such as wills, powers of attorney, retirement account beneficiary designations, and trust-related certificates or assignments. Inconsistent or conflicting provisions can undermine the intended outcome. Reviewing the whole estate plan helps identify needed complementary updates so that all documents work together and the trust functions smoothly. Addressing these interrelated matters in one review reduces the risk of future disputes and simplifies administration for trustees and successors.
People pursue trust modification petitions for many reasons, including correcting drafting mistakes, clarifying ambiguous language, accommodating new family members, providing for a beneficiary with special needs, changing trustees, or addressing tax planning needs that were not foreseen. Modifications can also handle changes in asset ownership or to remove provisions that have become impractical. When the trustmaker cannot amend the trust directly, a court-ordered modification ensures that the trust operates in a manner consistent with current circumstances and the trustmaker’s likely intentions.
Other common motivations include resolving conflicts among beneficiaries, formalizing informal understandings, and implementing settlement agreements that resolve competing claims. A modification can preserve estate plan goals while minimizing the administrative burden on trustees. In some cases, clarifying trust terms through the court reduces the likelihood of later litigation, saving time and expense for those who will administer or benefit from the trust. Each situation is unique, so assessing the specific facts helps determine whether a petition is the appropriate step.
Common circumstances prompting trust modification include significant life changes like divorce, remarriage, births, deaths, changes in asset value, or the need to provide for a beneficiary with ongoing care needs. Mistakes in drafting that misstate the trustmaker’s intent or omissions that create ambiguity also lead to petitions. When trustees face conflicting instructions or beneficiaries assert competing claims, the probate court can clarify the trust terms to permit administration to continue. Identifying the underlying reason for a proposed change is the first step in determining the best path forward.
Drafting errors or omissions in a trust document can create uncertainty about how assets should be distributed or managed. Such mistakes may be as simple as incorrect names or as complex as language that fails to capture the trustmaker’s intended allocation. A petition for rectification or modification asks the court to correct these errors so the trust reflects what the trustmaker meant. Providing corroborating evidence, such as drafts, correspondence, or witness declarations, helps demonstrate the intended terms and increases the likelihood that the court will grant the requested correction.
Shifts in family relationships like marriage, divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren, or the addition of care responsibilities for an aging relative can all make a trust’s original terms unsuitable. Modifying a trust to reflect current familial relationships can ensure fair and practical distributions and align administrative provisions with the trustmaker’s updated priorities. Careful consideration of family dynamics can prevent unintended disinheritance or inequitable results and help maintain family harmony by addressing foreseeable issues proactively.
Substantial changes in asset composition, tax law, or financial strategy can necessitate adjustments to trust provisions to achieve intended outcomes and protect estate value. Trust modifications can address how retirement accounts, life insurance, business interests, or other complex assets are managed and distributed. Reviewing the trust in light of current financial realities helps ensure that administrative instructions, distribution timing, and trusteeship arrangements support efficient management and preservation of family wealth for intended beneficiaries.
If you are facing a trust that no longer reflects current needs or encounters legal ambiguities, the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman in San Jose can help evaluate whether a trust modification petition is appropriate. We work with trustees and beneficiaries to gather documentation, explain options, and pursue a course that seeks clarity and stability. Our local knowledge of Santa Clara County court procedures and timelines helps clients anticipate next steps and prepare an organized case. Contact our office to discuss your situation and consider the best path forward for preserving the trustmaker’s intent.
Clients turn to the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman for clear guidance on trust modification matters because we focus on practical solutions that align with client objectives. We assist with document collection, petition preparation, and coordination with trustees and beneficiaries to pursue a resolution that minimizes conflict and promotes enforceability. Our approach emphasizes efficient case preparation, transparent communication, and tailored strategies that reflect the particular facts of each matter and the relevant legal standards in California and Santa Clara County.
We prioritize helping clients understand the options available for resolving trust issues, whether through beneficiary agreements, amendments where possible, or by seeking a court-ordered modification when necessary. This includes analyzing the likely outcomes of different approaches and preparing a persuasive record to support the requested relief. By focusing on clear legal reasoning and careful procedural steps, our team seeks to reduce uncertainty and provide a documented result that trustees and beneficiaries can rely on when administering the trust.
Our office works to keep clients informed throughout the process, explaining court procedures, filing requirements, and potential timelines so that trustees and beneficiaries can plan accordingly. When court involvement is required, we prepare materials that present the facts and law in an organized manner and coordinate service and communication with all interested parties. The goal is to achieve a durable modification that reflects the trustmaker’s intent while protecting beneficiary interests and facilitating smooth administration going forward.
Our process begins with a thorough review of the trust, amendments, and related estate planning documents, followed by a discussion of goals and concerns. We then identify the legal grounds for a modification, gather supporting evidence, and prepare a petition tailored to the court’s expectations. We handle required notices to beneficiaries, file the petition, and represent clients in hearings if needed. Throughout the engagement, we communicate developments clearly and work to resolve matters efficiently, aiming to secure a court order that implements the requested modifications with minimal disruption.
The first step is a comprehensive review of the trust document and related paperwork to determine whether a petition is necessary and what relief is appropriate. We assess the facts that led to the requested change, identify interested parties, and recommend a strategy that considers both the legal requirements and practical implications. This stage includes collecting drafts, correspondence, financial records, and any evidence that demonstrates the trustmaker’s intent or changed circumstances. A clear strategy helps streamline the subsequent petition preparation and outreach to beneficiaries.
Gathering the right documents is essential to support a petition. This includes the original trust, amendments, wills, beneficiary designations, relevant correspondence, and financial records showing asset ownership and transfers into the trust. Witness statements or other contemporaneous evidence that reflect the trustmaker’s intent can be especially helpful. Organizing this material into a coherent chronology and highlighting the specific provisions that require modification prepares the petition for review and helps the court understand the basis for the requested change.
Identifying and notifying interested parties is a key procedural requirement. Proper notice gives beneficiaries and heirs the opportunity to respond to the proposed modification. We ensure that all required recipients are identified, that notice is served according to statutory and local court rules, and that proof of service is prepared. Handling notice correctly avoids delays and challenges to the court’s jurisdiction and helps demonstrate that the process has been conducted fairly and transparently for all involved.
After gathering evidence and ensuring notice procedures can be met, we draft a petition that explains the legal basis for the requested modification and includes supporting documentation. The petition sets out factual statements, references to relevant statutory authority, and a proposed order for the court to sign. Filing involves submitting the petition and exhibits to the probate court and ensuring compliance with filing fees and local rules. Clear presentation of the request helps the court and the parties understand the relief sought and the reasons it is appropriate.
Drafting a petition requires clear factual allegations that show why the modification is justified and a proposed order that precisely states the requested changes. The petition should identify the exact provisions to be modified or corrected and explain how the proposed language reflects the trustmaker’s intent or addresses changed circumstances. A well-drafted proposed order helps the court implement the change and reduces ambiguity about how the trust should operate after modification, which benefits trustees and beneficiaries alike.
Once the petition is filed, it must be properly served on interested parties and managed through any objections or requests for additional information. If beneficiaries raise concerns, we work to address them through negotiation or by preparing responses that clarify the petition’s basis. Handling objections promptly and professionally can often resolve disputes without protracted litigation. If a hearing is required, we prepare declarations and supporting materials that anticipate likely questions and present the facts in a concise, persuasive way consistent with the court’s standards.
If the court requires a hearing, we represent clients at the proceeding and present the factual and legal basis for the requested modification. The court will evaluate evidence, hear objections, and decide whether to sign an order implementing the change. When the court grants the petition, it issues a formal order that revises the trust document as specified, creating a clear, enforceable record. After the order is entered, we assist with implementing the change, notifying relevant institutions, and updating related estate planning documents as needed.
Preparing for a hearing involves assembling declarations, exhibits, and a clear presentation of facts that support the requested modification. Witness statements, financial records, and documentary evidence that highlight the trustmaker’s intent or changed circumstances enhance the petition’s credibility. We prepare clients for testimony if required and organize materials so the court can readily review the basis for the change. A focused presentation increases the likelihood that the court will understand and approve the requested relief without prolonged litigation.
After the court enters an order approving a modification, next steps include serving the order on trustees and beneficiaries, updating trust records, and notifying financial institutions or title holders as necessary. We assist in preparing revised trust instruments or certifications and in coordinating actions needed to reflect the court-approved changes. Ensuring that institutional records and asset titles are updated prevents future administrative issues and helps trustees carry out their duties according to the newly ordered terms of the trust.
A trust modification petition is a legal filing that asks the probate court to permit changes to an existing trust when the trustmaker cannot amend the document directly or when there are material errors or ambiguities. The petition explains why the requested change reflects the trustmaker’s intent or is necessary due to changed circumstances. Filing is appropriate when the trust contains drafting mistakes, when beneficiaries cannot reach agreement, or when judicial clarification is needed to ensure the trust operates as intended. The court reviews evidence and issues an order if it finds the modification justified. Filing a petition creates a formal, enforceable record of the change and reduces the chance of future disputes among beneficiaries or trustees. It also provides clear guidance to trustees about how to administer the trust going forward. The process typically involves providing copies of the trust and related documents, notifying all interested parties, and presenting factual support for the requested change so the court can evaluate whether the modification serves the trustmaker’s objectives and complies with applicable law.
In some cases, beneficiaries can agree to changes without court involvement, particularly when the trust permits amendment by beneficiary consent or when state law allows a nonjudicial settlement agreement. If every beneficiary and any necessary parties sign a written agreement that documents the changes and meets formal requirements, the trust can sometimes be updated without filing a petition. This route depends on the trust’s terms and whether all interested parties can be properly identified and are willing to consent. When beneficiaries do not agree or when the trust does not permit nonjudicial modification, a court petition may be necessary to resolve disputes or correct mistakes. Court involvement ensures the changes are formally recognized and enforceable. Proper notice and documentation are essential in either approach to minimize the risk of later challenges and to provide a clear record of the parties’ intentions.
Supporting a petition requires clear documentary and testimonial evidence demonstrating the trustmaker’s intent or the nature of the error or changed circumstances. Useful evidence includes the original trust, any amendments, related wills or pour-over wills, drafts, letters, or emails in which the trustmaker expressed their intentions, and financial records showing how assets were held. Declarations from witnesses who can attest to the trustmaker’s statements or mental state at the time of drafting can also be persuasive in demonstrating what the trustmaker intended. Organizing these materials into a coherent timeline and explaining how the proposed modification corrects an error or accommodates changed circumstances strengthens the petition. Courts assess the credibility and sufficiency of the evidence, so clear, contemporaneous documents and consistent witness statements provide the best support for achieving a favorable outcome.
The timeline for a trust modification petition varies based on case complexity, the need to serve notice, whether there are objections, and local court schedules. Simple matters with cooperative beneficiaries and clear documentation can be resolved more quickly, sometimes in a few months. More complex or contested matters can take significantly longer, especially if extensive discovery or multiple hearings are required. Court calendars and procedural requirements in Santa Clara County also influence how long the process will take. Preparing a comprehensive petition with well-organized evidence and properly served notice helps avoid delays. If objections arise, additional time will be needed to respond and potentially litigate contested issues. Clear communication with beneficiaries and efficient case management can shorten the process and reduce uncertainty for trustees and beneficiaries.
A modification can affect beneficiary distributions, timing of distributions, and potentially tax consequences depending on the nature of the change and the assets involved. Changes that alter the timing or form of distributions, adjust beneficiary shares, or affect control over certain assets should be evaluated for potential tax implications. Reviewing related documents, such as retirement account beneficiary designations or life insurance arrangements, ensures that modifications align with the broader estate plan and minimize unintended consequences. If tax issues are likely, coordinating with financial and tax advisors as part of the review process can help design modifications that achieve the trustmaker’s goals without creating adverse tax outcomes. A comprehensive analysis of assets and the proposed changes reduces the risk of later complications for beneficiaries or trustees.
When beneficiaries object to a proposed modification, the court will consider their concerns during the hearing and evaluate whether the evidence supports the requested change. Objections may lead to additional disclosure, depositions, or evidentiary hearings to resolve factual disputes. The court balances the trustmaker’s intent, the reason for the proposed change, and any potential prejudice to beneficiaries when deciding whether to grant the petition. Resolving objections through negotiation or mediation can sometimes avoid prolonged litigation and produce a workable agreement that addresses all parties’ concerns. If litigation is necessary, presenting clear documentation and a focused legal argument increases the chances of a favorable outcome despite opposition from some beneficiaries.
Yes, if a trust contains drafting errors that do not reflect the trustmaker’s true intent, a petition for rectification can ask the court to correct the mistake. Successful rectification requires convincing evidence that the written document fails to capture the trustmaker’s intended terms, such as contemporaneous drafts, communications, or witness testimony that corroborate the intended provisions. The court will evaluate whether the correction accurately reflects what the trustmaker meant when the trust was created. Rectification is a powerful remedy when the proof supports it, but it requires careful assembly of evidence and clear presentation to the court. Providing a coherent narrative and documentary proof that explains the error and the intended language helps the court determine whether correction is appropriate and justified under California law.
Alternatives to filing a petition include achieving a written agreement among beneficiaries, pursuing arbitration or mediation to resolve disputes, or, when possible, obtaining a direct amendment from the trustmaker if they are capable and willing. Nonjudicial settlement agreements can be effective when all interested parties consent and the trust document and state law permit such approaches. These alternatives can save time and expense compared with a contested court petition when cooperation is feasible. However, when parties cannot agree or the trustmaker cannot amend the trust directly, court intervention may be necessary to achieve a binding resolution. Choosing an alternative requires careful assessment of the trust terms, the parties’ willingness to negotiate, and the legal framework that applies to the trust.
Trustees play an important role in the petition process because they are responsible for trust administration and may need to implement changes if the court grants relief. Trustees must be identified and served with notice of the petition, and they may need to provide records and information about trust assets and prior administration. If the proposed modification affects trustee duties or authority, the court may address those issues as part of the order. Trustees also have a duty to act in the best interests of beneficiaries, so they may be involved in discussions to resolve disputes or clarify administrative steps needed after a modification. Clear instructions from the court and assistance in implementing the order help trustees fulfill their responsibilities and avoid future challenges.
For an initial consultation about a trust modification, bring the original trust document and any amendments, related wills or pour-over wills, powers of attorney, beneficiary designations, and any correspondence or drafts that shed light on the trustmaker’s intent. Financial statements and records showing asset ownership, transfers into the trust, and account titles are helpful. Providing a summary of key facts, relevant family information, and any known disputes will allow a focused discussion about options. Detailed documentation helps the attorney evaluate whether a petition is necessary and what evidence will be needed to support a modification. Being prepared with organized records shortens the intake process and enables a more productive conversation about potential strategies and likely outcomes in Santa Clara County.
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