Business Details
34 Years
experience
Estate Planning & Trust Attorney in Sebastopol
Since 1992, I have dedicated my practice to providing accessible, ethical estate planning and trust administration services in Sebastopol, CA. As a State Bar of California Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law, I combine technical expertise with a commitment to demystifying legal processes for clients. My approach prioritizes personalized solutions over rigid templates, ensuring clients understand their options while avoiding probate complexities.With over 29 years of local practice and extensive community involvement, including past roles on the Sebastopol Planning Commission and Rotary Club leadership, I maintain deep familiarity with regional needs. My office operates with transparency, offering free initial consultations and maintaining direct communication channels to serve clients efficiently.
Services
Estate Planning
Trust Administration
Probate Services
Notary Public
Advanced Healthcare Directives
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- Free initial consultation with no obligation
- State Bar Certified Specialist in Estate Planning
- Over 29 years serving Sebastopol community
- Direct attorney communication within one hour
- Practical solutions for complex family situations
Associations and certifications
- State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
What people say
Down to earth
Easy to understand
Professional expertise
Problem solver
Reasonable cost
Services
Estate Planning
Comprehensive estate plans include living trusts, wills, and healthcare directives to manage asset distribution. Services address tax minimization, incapacity planning, and family-specific needs. Clients receive clear guidance on legal options tailored to their financial situation.
Trust Administration
Guidance through trust administration processes including asset appraisal, beneficiary communication, and tax compliance. Services ensure smooth post-death trust management while avoiding probate delays. Coordination with accountants and financial advisors maintains legal and financial integrity.
Probate Services
Assistance with California probate procedures for estates exceeding $166,250. Services include court filings, creditor notifications, and asset distribution. Expertise handles both simple and complex probate matters regardless of where the original will was created.
Notary Public
Document verification services available during business hours with prior confirmation. Requires government-issued photo ID. Standard $15 fee per signature supports legal document authentication needs for local residents.
Advanced Estate Planning
Customized solutions for complex estates involving multiple properties, businesses, or blended families. Services address unique challenges like disabled beneficiaries or estranged family members. Plans balance legal requirements with practical, long-term effectiveness.
People
Kenneth S Jacobs Attorney At Law
Attorney at Law
Certified estate planning specialist with 29+ years experience in Sebastopol. UC Berkeley and University of Washington Law School graduate. Active community leader serving on local boards and past president of Sebastopol Chamber of Commerce.
Questions
What estate planning documents do I really need?
Most clients require a living trust, pour-over will, durable power of attorney, and healthcare directive to comprehensively manage assets and incapacity planning.
How much does probate cost in California?
Estates over $166,250 typically require probate, with costs ranging 4-7% of estate value. Our office provides detailed cost estimates during free consultations.
Can I create an estate plan without an attorney?
While DIY options exist, customized legal guidance ensures documents meet specific needs and comply with California's complex probate code requirements.
Do you offer virtual appointments?
Yes, video appointments available for client convenience while maintaining personalized service standards.
What makes your practice different from other law firms?
Direct attorney access, community-focused approach, and clear explanations of legal concepts without technical jargon. Free initial consultation with no obligation.
