Business Details
34 Years
experience
Estate Planning & Probate Services in Los Altos, CA
For over 30 years, the Law Office Of Janet Brewer has provided specialized estate planning and probate services to families in California and internationally. As a certified estate planning and probate specialist by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization, Janet brings deep expertise in complex estate matters, including international tax planning and trust administration. Our practice focuses on creating tailored solutions to protect assets, minimize tax burdens, and ensure clients' wishes are executed with precision.With recognition as a Northern California SuperLawyer and a 10/10 Avvo rating, we combine technical excellence with compassionate service. Our team prioritizes clear communication, guiding clients through intricate legal processes while maintaining transparency and ethical standards. Clients consistently praise our ability to simplify complex scenarios and deliver reliable, family-centered outcomes.
Services
Estate Planning
Probate Administration
Trust Administration
International Estate Planning
Charitable Planning
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of specialized experience in estate planning and probate law
- Certified specialist in estate planning and probate by California State Bar
- Proven expertise in international estate tax planning for non-residents
- Recognized as Northern California SuperLawyer annually since 2007
- Client-focused approach with personalized, no-nonsense legal guidance
Associations and certifications
- California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization (Estate Planning & Probate Specialist)
- Martindale-Hubbell AV Distinguished
What people say
Understands international laws
Brilliant and efficient
Thorough explanations
Well respected
Compassionate approach
Services
Estate Planning
Comprehensive estate planning for individuals and families, including wills, trusts, and tax strategies. We help clients protect assets, minimize tax liabilities, and ensure their wishes are legally documented. Our services address complex scenarios like international assets and special needs planning, providing peace of mind for future generations.
Probate Administration
Guiding executors through California's probate process with expertise and support. We handle asset inventory, debt settlement, tax filings, and distribution according to wills or state laws. Our goal is to streamline proceedings while maintaining compliance, reducing stress for families during difficult transitions.
Trust Administration
Specialized trust administration for successor trustees, including asset management and distribution. We ensure fiduciary compliance with legal requirements while protecting beneficiaries' interests. Our services cover trust funding, tax reporting, and resolution of complex administration challenges.
International Estate Planning
Tailored solutions for non-residents and U.S. citizens with international assets. We address complex tax rules affecting cross-border estates, minimizing tax exposure while ensuring compliance with U.S. and foreign regulations. Our expertise includes planning for green card holders and multinational families.
Charitable Planning
Strategic charitable giving solutions that maximize tax benefits while supporting clients' philanthropic goals. We structure donations through trusts and foundations to optimize estate tax reductions while ensuring alignment with clients' values and legacy objectives.
People
Janet L. Brewer
Attorney & Principal
Certified estate planning specialist with 30+ years of experience. Holds MBA and LLM in Taxation. Served on California State Bar Board of Trustees. Recognized as SuperLawyer and Avvo Top Attorney.
Questions
What estate planning documents do I need?
Essential documents include wills, revocable trusts, durable powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. We customize plans based on your assets, family needs, and tax considerations.
How does international estate planning work?
We address complex tax rules for non-residents and cross-border assets, minimizing U.S. estate tax exposure while ensuring compliance with both U.S. and foreign regulations through specialized trusts and gifting strategies.
What happens during probate?
Probate involves validating the will, inventorying assets, settling debts, and distributing property. Our team guides executors through California's legal requirements to streamline this process.
How can trusts protect my assets?
Trusts provide control over asset distribution, protect against creditors, and avoid probate. We design revocable and irrevocable trusts tailored to your specific protection and tax planning needs.
Do I need an attorney for estate planning?
Legal expertise ensures documents meet state requirements and address complex scenarios. Our specialized knowledge prevents costly errors and provides comprehensive protection for your unique situation.
