Trusted Litigators Resolving Legal Disputes Throughout Southern California Since 2005
A Responsive Firm Resolving Legal Disputes With An Innovative Edge
We have integrated advanced technologies, including AI, in our firm’s operations to ensure efficiency and responsiveness. This means estate planning firms seeking our services in probate disputes will never have to endure the long waits associated with our competitors. With us, you are guaranteed prompt replies, ensuring you are always informed and supported. Taking this approach ensures our clients receive the attentive support they need and deserve without the excessive costs.
In addition to our experienced lawyers, our support staff, from paralegals to administrative professionals, are meticulously selected for their profound capabilities, matching the high standards of our attorneys. This harmonious blend of skill and technology makes The Estate Lawyers, APC, a modern choice for discerning clients seeking effective legal solutions.
Estate Disputes We Litigate
Estate Litigation
Financial Elder Abuse
Litigation Representation For Estate Planning Firms
At The Estate Lawyers, APC, we work exclusively with estate planning firms that need us to litigate legal disputes involving elder abuse, trust administration, will and trust contests, trust litigation, probate and estate administration, and conservatorships.
As tenacious litigators, we thrive in the courtroom and in probate situations. Our skilled attorneys bring a wealth of knowledge and decades of experience to each legal challenge. Attorneys Amy L. Gostanian and Bradley R. Kirk are board certified in Estate Planning, Trusts, and Probate Law by the State Bar of California. They have represented firms in over 100 trials and use their extensive expertise in collaborating with each member of our legal team to ensure that each case is given the attention it deserves.
Client Testimonials
“I don’t trust 90 percent of attorneys forever. I trust Ryan. My issue has been going on for nine years. I finally have traction and intend to prevail. After a court action in the New Year I will hire Ryan for the new actions.
Finally a real not full of it Firm.”
“I am writing to commend Lauren for the excellent customer service she provided to me. The self-initiative she showed and the prompt, considerate follow-up communications through-out the process were greatly appreciated. She represents an asset to your team and deserves recognition for her professionalism.”
“The firm is passionate about representing their clients. They are top notch litigators who fight for their clients.”
“I have observed the members of this firm hold the highest of standards for the way they treat their clients. They have taken the time to understand a client’s problem, and help them get to a better place. It is wonderful to see a law firm that takes the time to plan how they will do that successfuly year after year. Amazing!”
Latest News
Estate Law Update: Millions More California Homes Eligible to Bypass Full Probate Process
California Assembly Bill 2016 went into effect on April 1, 2025, raising the threshold on the value of primary residences that can bypass the full probate process to $750,000. This is a substantial increase from the previous limit of $184,500 set in 2019, meaning many more primary residences are eligible for the simplified petition process. This is great news for many who will avoid the lengthy and costly full probate procedure. Still, it is no replacement for comprehensive estate planning.
Four Estate Planning Lessons from the Deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa
The deaths of famous actor Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa illustrates the need for comprehensive estate planning that goes beyond drafting a will. Estate planners should work with clients to develop a holistic plan that includes trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and beneficiary designations. But the most important lesson from this case is the need for contingency planning for lost beneficiaries and agents, and the testators themselves should they become incapacitated or unable to live unassisted.
More Primary Residences Will Soon Be Eligible to Bypass the Full Probate Process in California
The Estate Lawyers reports on positive imminent changes to California probate code which means more homes will be eligible for the simplified probate process. Still, this does not obviate the value of a solid trust.
