If you are considering changes to an existing trust in Soulsbyville, a trust modification petition provides a legal path to update terms, correct ambiguities, or adapt a trust to changed circumstances. At the Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman, we help clients understand how state law affects modifications, what documentation is required, and what outcomes to expect. This guide explains common reasons people pursue trust modification petitions, the procedures typically involved, and the practical steps you can take to protect beneficiaries’ interests while pursuing an efficient resolution through the courts or other allowable methods.
Trusts may need revision for many reasons including changes in family dynamics, tax law shifts, asset relocations, or updates to fiduciary appointments. A petition to modify a trust asks the court to approve changes when the original trust terms cannot be changed informally or when clarity or formal authority is needed. This page outlines how a modification petition differs from other estate planning processes, what evidence and legal arguments support a modification, and how thoughtful planning combined with clear legal filings can reduce delays and help preserve the settlor’s intentions and beneficiaries’ rights.
Filing a trust modification petition can preserve the integrity of an estate plan while ensuring it reflects current realities. Modifications can correct drafting errors, clarify ambiguous language, or update trustees and beneficiaries in light of changed circumstances. The process can also prevent disputes by obtaining a court’s formal approval of changes, which reduces uncertainty among beneficiaries and third parties. By seeking a modification through appropriate legal channels, families can protect assets, ensure smoother administration, and maintain the settlor’s original intentions when informal changes are not feasible or when legal validation is necessary.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman serves Soulsbyville and Tuolumne County with a focus on estate planning and trust administration matters. Our office assists clients with a wide array of trust-related filings, from drafting amendments to preparing and presenting petitions to the probate court. We work closely with clients to gather necessary documents, explain legal standards that apply in California, and pursue the most appropriate procedural route for each situation. We prioritize clear communication, careful preparation, and practical solutions tailored to each family’s needs while staying attentive to local court practices and timelines.
A trust modification petition asks the probate court to approve changes to an existing trust when informal amendment is unavailable or inadequate. California law provides pathways for judicial modification when terms are ambiguous, circumstances have changed significantly, or when the settlor’s intent cannot be carried out without court guidance. The petition must show factual and legal support for the requested change, including evidence of changed circumstances or clarifying language that aligns with the settlor’s probable intent. The court evaluates whether the modification serves the trust’s purpose and protects beneficiary interests before granting relief.
The steps involved include gathering trust documents, preparing a clear petition describing the requested modification and the reasons for it, providing notice to interested parties, and attending hearings if required. In some cases, agreements among beneficiaries and trustees can streamline the process, while contested petitions may require additional evidence and legal argument. Understanding procedural requirements, timing, and potential outcomes helps clients make informed decisions and pursue modifications that minimize conflict and administrative disruption while preserving or clarifying the settlor’s objectives.
A trust modification petition is a formal court filing that requests changes to the terms or administration of a trust when informal means are unavailable or inadequate. Typical uses include correcting drafting errors, addressing changed financial circumstances, substituting trustees, clarifying ambiguous provisions, or adjusting distributions in light of unforeseen events. The petition describes the proposed change, the legal basis supporting the request, and how the modification aligns with the trust’s purpose. Courts consider whether the change is consistent with the settlor’s intent and whether it protects beneficiary rights before granting approval.
A successful petition for trust modification depends on clear documentation, compelling factual support, and proper notice to interested parties. Essential elements include the original trust instrument, a precise description of the requested modification, affidavits or declarations supporting the factual basis for change, and documentation of any agreements among beneficiaries or trustees. The process typically requires filing the petition with the probate court, serving notice to beneficiaries and other interested parties, and possibly attending a hearing. Careful preparation reduces the risk of objections and helps the court evaluate whether the requested change is appropriate and lawful under California trust law.
Understanding common terms helps clients navigate the modification process with confidence. Terms such as settlor, trustee, beneficiary, amendment, reformation, and decanting appear frequently in modification matters. Knowing these definitions clarifies roles and procedural rights, including who has standing to petition, how notice must be provided, and what courts consider when evaluating a requested change. This section provides concise definitions and practical explanations to demystify legal language and help readers recognize how different concepts affect the strategy and likely outcomes of a trust modification petition.
The settlor, also called the grantor, is the person who created the trust and established its terms. The settlor’s intent and original instructions are central to any request to modify a trust; courts look to the settlor’s probable intent when evaluating proposed changes. If the settlor is alive and has capacity, some modifications may be achievable through amendment; if not, a petition may be necessary to address unforeseen circumstances or correct problems that frustrate the settlor’s original goals. Understanding this role clarifies whose wishes guide the trust’s administration.
A modification alters the terms of a trust going forward, often to adapt to changed circumstances or new information, while reformation seeks to correct mistakes in the original document to reflect the settlor’s true intent. Reformation typically requires clear evidence such as drafting errors or mutual mistake. Courts apply different legal standards for reformation versus modification, so distinguishing between the two helps determine the appropriate remedy and the type of evidence required to persuade the court to approve the requested change.
The trustee is the person or institution responsible for administering the trust according to its terms and applicable law. Trustees owe fiduciary duties to beneficiaries, including duties of loyalty, prudence, and impartiality. When a petition seeks to change trustees or adjust administrative powers, the court evaluates whether the proposed action better serves the trust’s purpose and the beneficiaries’ interests. Understanding trustee responsibilities clarifies why the court may require detailed evidence or oversight before approving changes that affect trust management or distributions.
Notice refers to the legal obligation to inform beneficiaries and other interested parties about a petition to modify a trust. Proper notice allows those parties to object or participate in proceedings if they disagree with the requested changes. Interested parties typically include named beneficiaries, heirs, and sometimes creditors or successors. Courts carefully review whether notice was provided in accordance with statute and procedure because inadequate notice can invalidate a modification, lead to reopening of matters, or invite future litigation challenging the court’s approval.
When trust changes are needed, several options may be available depending on the situation: informal amendment by the settlor, agreement among beneficiaries and trustees, or a formal petition to the court. Informal amendments are simplest when the settlor is alive and has the authority to make changes. Agreements can resolve disputes and avoid litigation if all parties consent. A petition becomes necessary when there is no agreement, when the settlor cannot act, or when formal validation is required to resolve disputes or clarify legal authority. Each option has trade-offs in cost, time, and finality.
A limited approach is often appropriate when the settlor is alive, has legal capacity, and clearly wishes to alter the trust. In those circumstances the settlor may execute an amendment according to the trust’s amendment provisions and state law, avoiding court intervention and reducing time and expense. Properly documenting the amendment and communicating changes to trustees and beneficiaries can prevent misunderstandings. This approach preserves privacy and provides a direct mechanism for the settlor to update distribution terms, trustees, or administrative powers without initiating court proceedings.
When all beneficiaries and trustees consent, the parties may execute a written agreement or settlement that modifies trust administration without formal judicial action. Such agreements should be carefully drafted to ensure they are legally enforceable and that they cover tax and creditor considerations. Achieving consensus can save time and legal costs, but it requires clear documentation and often legal review to ensure enforceability. Agreements are most appropriate when changes are straightforward, beneficiaries are cooperative, and there are no outstanding disputes or unresolved claims that would affect the trust.
A formal petition becomes necessary when beneficiaries disagree, the settlor is unavailable or lacks capacity, or when ambiguity or legal error in the trust document prevents straightforward amendment. In these cases, court approval provides a clear, enforceable resolution that protects the rights of all parties and prevents ongoing uncertainty. The court examines evidence, hears objections, and issues an order that settles the matter formally. Pursuing a petition requires thorough preparation, adherence to notice rules, and persuasive presentation of facts and legal arguments to the probate court.
Complex situations involving tax implications, creditor claims, or multi-jurisdictional assets often require formal court involvement to ensure legal and financial risks are properly managed. When changes could affect tax treatment or expose the trust to creditor challenge, obtaining a court order can provide legal certainty and protect trustees and beneficiaries from future disputes. A careful legal review at the outset helps identify potential issues, assess alternatives, and prepare the strongest possible petition so the court can make an informed decision that aligns with both legal requirements and the settlor’s objectives.
Seeking a comprehensive, court-approved modification provides lasting clarity and enforceability. Court orders reduce the likelihood of future challenges and create a clear public record of the modification, which can simplify trust administration and interactions with financial institutions. This route can also protect trustees from liability when making significant changes, because an approved modification reflects judicial oversight and approval. For families facing disputes, uncertainty, or complex estate considerations, a formal approach can provide durable resolutions that promote stability and preserve the settlor’s intentions.
Another major benefit is that a court-supervised modification can address multiple interrelated issues at once, such as trustee removal, distribution formula adjustments, and clarification of administrative powers. Consolidating these matters into a single proceeding reduces the risk of inconsistent outcomes and provides the court with a full picture when making determinations. The resulting order can guide future administration, limit litigation risk, and create certainty for beneficiaries and fiduciaries alike, which is especially valuable when assets, family structures, or legal circumstances have changed significantly.
A modification approved by the probate court carries authoritative weight that helps prevent later disputes or competing claims. This durable legal protection is particularly helpful when beneficiaries may challenge changes in the future or when third parties require evidence of valid authority to act. A court order makes the modification part of the official record, which streamlines interactions with banks, brokers, and title companies and provides trustees and beneficiaries with confidence that the trust terms are now legally settled and enforceable according to the court’s directions.
Using a formal petition lets parties address varied issues together, such as clarifying ambiguous provisions, appointing a successor trustee, or modifying distribution terms in light of changed needs. Consolidating these matters into one proceeding helps the court evaluate the full context and craft an order that resolves interrelated problems consistently. This consolidated approach reduces the chance of fragmented rulings, minimizes duplicated litigation efforts, and provides a comprehensive framework for future trust administration that aligns with legal standards and the settlor’s overarching objectives.
Begin by locating the original trust instrument, any amendments, trustee accountings, beneficiary designations, and related estate planning documents such as wills, powers of attorney, and health care directives. Providing a complete record helps assess whether a petition is necessary and supports any factual claims made to the court. Documentation of communications among parties, financial statements, and records of significant life events can strengthen your position. Organized records also expedite preparation and reduce the risk of missed information that could delay court proceedings or invite objections from interested parties.
Assessing the timing and financial implications of a modification is essential. Some changes may have tax consequences, affect eligibility for public benefits, or create creditor exposure. Evaluating these impacts with careful document review can help identify less disruptive alternatives or highlight the need for protective court relief. Understanding typical court timelines, filing fees, and potential attorney fees allows clients to weigh options wisely. A clear plan that anticipates administrative hurdles helps ensure the chosen path meets both legal requirements and family priorities while minimizing unintended financial consequences.
Consider a trust modification petition when changes to family structure, financial circumstances, or the trust instrument itself prevent the trust from operating as intended. Typical triggers include the death or incapacity of the settlor, the need to replace or remove a trustee, changes in beneficiary needs, errors in drafting, or tax law changes that affect trust administration. A petition can clarify ambiguity, correct mistakes, or update administrative powers so the trust can fulfill its purpose. Pursuing court approval helps ensure changes are lawful and enforceable for the long term.
Another reason to seek a modification petition is when informal amendments or beneficiary agreements are impractical due to disagreement, unavailable parties, or competing claims. Court-ordered changes are appropriate when legal validation is needed to protect trustees and beneficiaries or when third parties require a clear, enforceable order to act on the trust terms. If you are unsure which route fits your circumstances, an early review of documentation and goals will clarify whether a petition, negotiated settlement, or administrative amendment is the most effective and prudent solution.
Families pursue trust modification petitions for a variety of reasons, including changes in beneficiaries’ needs, the settlor’s incapacity or passing, errors in the original documents, or conflicts among beneficiaries. Requests to remove or replace trustees, to adjust distribution schedules, or to clarify ambiguous terms are also common. In some cases, tax planning changes, creditor issues, or relocation of assets across states make court involvement the safest path. Understanding these common scenarios helps identify when formal legal action may be necessary and how best to document the reasons for modification.
Significant changes such as divorce, birth of a child or grandchild, a beneficiary’s disability, or changes in financial need often prompt reconsideration of trust terms. When distribution provisions no longer reflect current realities, a modification petition can align the trust with the settlor’s updated intentions or with fair treatment of beneficiaries. Courts will consider whether proposed changes are reasonable and consistent with the trust’s purpose and the settlor’s likely wishes. Proper documentation and evidence about the changed circumstances strengthen the case for modification.
Drafting errors, ambiguous clauses, or omissions in the original trust document can hinder administration and generate disputes. When such problems cannot be resolved informally, a petition to reform or modify the trust may be necessary to reflect what the settlor intended. Courts typically require convincing evidence of mistake or ambiguity to justify reformation, and supporting documentation such as drafts, correspondence, or testimony can be significant. Reformation restores the trust’s intended operation and reduces ongoing administrative complications.
Situations may arise where a trustee becomes unable or unwilling to serve, or where their continued service would be detrimental to trust administration. A petition can request the court to appoint a successor trustee or remove a trustee for cause if standards of conduct or competence are not met. The court evaluates the best interests of beneficiaries, the trustee’s performance, and whether the proposed change aligns with the trust’s objectives. Properly presented factual records and proposed successor qualifications help the court make a sound decision.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman provides local legal support for Soulsbyville residents navigating trust modification matters. We assist with document review, petition preparation, notice procedures, and representation during hearings if needed. Our approach emphasizes clear communication about likely timelines, required documentation, and potential outcomes. By handling procedural details and coordinating with the court and interested parties, we aim to reduce stress for families and help achieve timely resolution in trust adjustment matters while preserving the settlor’s intentions and protecting beneficiary rights.
Choosing legal assistance for a trust petition ensures filings comply with California law and local court procedures. Our office prepares comprehensive petitions and supporting declarations, manages required notices, and advocates for outcomes that align with the client’s objectives. We focus on practical solutions to minimize conflict and administrative burdens, offering guidance through each procedural step. With an emphasis on clear communication and thorough preparation, we help clients navigate complex factual and legal questions that often arise in trust modification matters.
We work to balance cost-effectiveness and thorough representation, exploring opportunities for agreement among parties when appropriate and being prepared to litigate when necessary to protect client interests. Our team coordinates with financial and tax advisors when questions arise, ensuring proposed modifications consider broader financial implications. Clients receive honest assessments of likely timelines and possible outcomes so they can make informed decisions about pursuing petitions, settlements, or alternative approaches to resolve trust issues.
Throughout the process we emphasize client-centered service, careful document management, and proactive communication with beneficiaries and trustees. From initial case assessment to drafting pleadings and attending hearings, our goal is to achieve clear, enforceable results that align with the settlor’s intent and the beneficiaries’ needs. Call our office at 408-528-2827 to discuss your situation, review options, and learn the best path forward for trust modification matters in Soulsbyville and surrounding areas.
Our process begins with a thorough review of the trust instrument and related documents to assess whether a petition is necessary and what relief should be sought. We gather relevant facts, draft a clear petition and supporting declarations, and manage proper notice to all interested parties. Where appropriate, we pursue negotiation and settlement to avoid litigation. If court hearings are required, we represent the client’s position with organized evidence and focused legal argument. Our goal is to achieve a timely, enforceable resolution while protecting beneficiaries’ interests.
The first step involves collecting the trust document, amendments, related estate planning documents, accountings, and any pertinent communications or financial records. We identify interested parties and evaluate legal grounds for modification or reformation. This assessment clarifies whether a petition is necessary and what relief to request. By establishing the factual basis early, we can prepare compelling declarations and gather evidence that supports the legal theory most likely to achieve an appropriate court order.
Carefully reviewing the trust instrument and any prior amendments reveals the scope of permissible changes and any procedural requirements for modification. We examine language that may cause ambiguity or conflict and identify clauses governing amendment or trustee powers. This review helps determine whether an internal amendment, beneficiary agreement, or court petition is the correct route. Document analysis also informs strategy for demonstrating the settlor’s intent or establishing grounds for reformation if a drafting error exists.
Accurate identification of beneficiaries, heirs, and other interested parties is critical to meeting notice obligations and avoiding procedural defects. We compile contact information, examine statutory notice rules under California law, and prepare service materials. Proper notice prevents challenges based on inadequate process and allows the court to consider all viewpoints. Early coordination with all parties can sometimes yield agreements that streamline court action or remove the need for contested hearings, reducing time and expense.
Once the factual and legal basis is established, we draft the petition and supporting declarations, carefully articulating the requested modifications and the reasons they are appropriate. The filings set out the relief sought, the legal standard relied upon, and the evidence supporting the changes. After filing with the probate court, we effect service on all required parties and monitor response deadlines. Well-prepared petitions reduce the likelihood of delays or procedural challenges and set the stage for efficient resolution, whether by agreement or hearing.
Supporting declarations from trustees, beneficiaries, or other witnesses provide the factual foundation the court needs to decide the petition. We assemble documentary exhibits such as prior drafts, financial statements, and correspondence that corroborate assertions in the petition. Clear and organized exhibits help the court evaluate claims of mistake, changed circumstances, or the settlor’s intent. Thorough evidentiary preparation improves the petition’s credibility and increases the likelihood of a favorable decision or a productive settlement discussion with interested parties.
After filing the petition, strict compliance with local court rules and service requirements is essential. We ensure all procedural prerequisites are met, file required notices, and monitor any responsive pleadings from beneficiaries or other interested parties. Attention to these details prevents technical challenges that could delay proceedings or necessitate refiling. We also prepare for mediation or settlement conferences if the court recommends alternative dispute resolution, maintaining focus on efficient, enforceable resolutions that reflect the settlor’s objectives and beneficiary interests.
If a hearing is necessary, we present the case with well-organized evidence and concise legal argument tailored to the court’s standards. The court may grant the requested modification, order limited relief, or require additional findings. Once an order is issued, we assist with implementing changes such as updating trust records, notifying financial institutions, and providing trustees with guidance to ensure compliance with the new terms. Proper implementation helps prevent future disputes and ensures the trust operates consistently with the court’s directive.
At hearing, the court assesses the legal grounds and factual support for the requested modification. We present declarations, documentary evidence, and legal argument showing why the change aligns with the trust’s purpose or corrects an identifiable error. Clear, focused presentation helps the court evaluate the request efficiently and reduces the chance of additional proceedings. We also respond to objections from other parties, aiming to secure an order that balances legal sufficiency with practical administration needs.
After the court issues an order approving a modification, we assist in implementing the change by preparing required documentation, updating trustee records, and communicating the order to banks, brokers, and other custodians. Ensuring that financial institutions and service providers accept the court-approved change avoids administrative confusion and protects trustees from liability. We also advise on any follow-up steps such as revised accountings or amended trust documents that reflect the new terms and help maintain a clear record for future administration and potential audits.
To file a petition to modify a trust in California you must prepare a formal pleading that identifies the trust, describes the requested modification, and explains the legal and factual grounds supporting the change. The petition should include the original trust instrument and any relevant amendments as exhibits, plus declarations or affidavits from witnesses who can attest to changed circumstances, drafting errors, or the settlor’s intent. Proper service of notice on beneficiaries and other interested parties according to California probate rules is essential to prevent procedural challenges. Filing also requires adherence to local court rules such as formatting, filing fees, and required forms, which can differ by county. Preparing thorough supporting materials and meeting notice obligations reduces the risk of delays or objections. When the petition is complete, it is filed with the probate court, served on interested parties, and the court schedules any necessary hearings. Early coordination and complete documentation help the court assess the request efficiently.
Yes, beneficiaries who receive proper notice of a petition have the right to object and present their own evidence or arguments against the requested modification. Their objections can raise factual disputes or legal defenses that the court must consider before deciding whether to grant the petition. If beneficiaries object, the matter may proceed to a contested hearing where both sides present their positions. The court evaluates the merits based on evidence, statutory standards, and the trust’s stated purpose. Even when objections are likely, negotiations or mediated settlement discussions can sometimes resolve disputes without a protracted hearing. Agreements among beneficiaries and trustees can lead to stipulated orders that the court approves. However, when consensus is not possible, the court’s role is to weigh the competing claims and determine the modification that best aligns with the settlor’s intent and beneficiaries’ rights under California law.
The timeline for a trust modification petition varies by county, case complexity, and whether the petition is contested. Simple, uncontested petitions may move through the court in a matter of weeks to a few months, while contested matters involving multiple parties or extensive evidence can take many months or longer. Local court calendars, required notice periods, and the need for additional evidence or hearings all affect timing. Because of these variables, it is important to prepare thoroughly and anticipate potential objections or evidentiary needs. Early collection of documents, proactive notice, and clear framing of legal issues can shorten the process. When disputes arise, courts may schedule additional hearings or require settlement efforts before issuing a final order, adding to the overall duration.
Not always. Courts sometimes approve uncontested petitions on submitted paperwork without an in-person hearing, particularly when the petition is clear and beneficiaries do not object. However, if parties raise objections, if the court seeks clarification, or if the legal issues are complex, a hearing may be scheduled so the judge can hear argument and review testimony. Whether a hearing is required depends on the petition’s content, local practices, and whether any interested party requests a hearing. Filing a petition with complete supporting declarations and exhibits increases the likelihood that the court can rule without an extensive hearing. Still, clients should be prepared for the possibility of a hearing and assemble testimony and documentary evidence to support the requested modification in case the court requires oral argument or additional factual findings.
Evidence that supports reformation or modification includes drafts and communications showing the settlor’s original intent, affidavits from individuals familiar with the settlor’s wishes, contemporaneous correspondence, and financial records demonstrating changes in circumstances. Documentation of drafting mistakes or mutual intent can be particularly persuasive for reformation claims. The strength of the evidence often determines whether the court will grant reformation rather than merely declining to act. Additional useful materials include accountings, trustee reports, medical records when capacity is an issue, and written agreements among beneficiaries. Presenting organized, credible evidence that links the requested change to the trust’s purpose and the settlor’s probable intent helps the court evaluate and, where appropriate, approve the requested relief.
A petition to appoint a successor trustee typically sets out the reasons for appointment, the proposed successor’s qualifications, and any statutory authority that supports the change. The court evaluates whether the proposed appointment is in the best interests of the beneficiaries and consistent with the trust’s directives. If the trustee has resigned or is otherwise unable to serve, the petition includes documentation of that incapacity and any relevant trust provisions for succession. When multiple parties object or prefer different successors, the court will weigh the evidence and select the candidate who best serves the trust’s purposes and beneficiaries’ interests. After an appointment order, the successor trustee receives lawful authority to manage trust assets in accordance with the court’s directives and the trust instrument.
Yes, some modifications can have tax consequences or affect eligibility for public benefits. Changes that alter income distributions, the character of assets, or ownership can trigger taxable events or affect means-tested benefits. It is important to consider tax and benefits implications before finalizing modifications. Consulting with tax counsel or financial advisors helps identify and mitigate adverse consequences when making changes that affect taxable income or asset ownership. When public benefits are a concern, especially for beneficiaries who rely on government programs, careful planning is essential. Some modifications may be structured to protect benefits, such as creating a particular type of subtrust to manage distributions. Addressing these matters proactively helps ensure that modifications achieve their intended goals without unintended financial or eligibility consequences.
Alternatives to filing a judicial petition include executing an amendment if the settlor is alive and has authority to change the trust, negotiating a written agreement among beneficiaries and trustees, or using administrative mechanisms provided in the trust instrument. Where decanting is permitted, a trustee may be able to transfer assets to a new trust with different terms, if allowed by statute and the trust’s provisions. These alternatives can be faster and less costly when parties agree or when the trust’s terms allow administrative flexibility. However, when parties disagree, the settlor is unavailable, or formal validation is advisable, a petition provides legal finality and enforceability. Choosing the right path requires evaluating the trust language, the parties’ willingness to cooperate, and the legal standards applicable in the relevant jurisdiction.
Determining whether a petition is necessary depends on who has authority to change the trust and whether all interested parties agree. If the settlor is competent and the trust permits amendment, an internal amendment may suffice. If all beneficiaries and trustees consent, a signed agreement may be effective. A petition is often necessary when the settlor cannot act, when beneficiaries disagree, or when the trust contains ambiguities or errors that require judicial clarification. A document review and early legal assessment clarify the available options. If uncertainties exist about authority or enforceability, seeking legal guidance early prevents missteps and helps identify the most efficient path that protects parties’ rights and aligns with the settlor’s intentions.
Protecting beneficiaries involves clear communication, careful document preparation, and ensuring proper notice of all proceedings. When changes are proposed, providing beneficiaries with clear explanations and opportunities to participate reduces the risk of surprise and subsequent challenges. Court-ordered modifications provide strong legal protection because once the court approves the change, that approval carries legal weight and reduces the likelihood of future disputes. During and after a modification, trustees should follow the court’s order precisely, update records, and provide transparent accountings to beneficiaries. Maintaining accurate documentation and following required procedures protects trustees from liability and reassures beneficiaries that the trust is being administered according to lawful and documented directions.
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