For nearly four decades, Wakeman Law Group has provided experienced estate, trust, probate, and business-planning counsel to individuals and families across Southern California.
From foundational estate plans to trust administration, probate, and business planning — steady guidance at every stage.
Thoughtful, tax-aware plans built to protect your family and your legacy.
Learn more →Guiding trustees and families through the administration process.
Learn more →Steady, experienced representation through California probate.
Learn more →Entity and charitable planning, coordinated with your estate plan.
Learn more →We collaborate with your financial advisors, accountants, and other professionals to create a coordinated plan tailored to your family, assets, and long-term goals.
We take the time to understand your circumstances, explain your options clearly, and design a plan that protects what you've built — and the people you love.
J. Peter Wakeman has focused his practice on estate and tax planning since establishing Wakeman Law Group in 1987. He holds an AV Preeminent rating and has been recognized by Super Lawyers.
Meet Peter and the Team →
"We have been working with Peter Wakeman for years and he is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with. If you have an estate planning issue, you now 'have a guy' in Peter."
"Mr. Wakeman knows his law."
"Easy to work with and prompt replies."
Both a Will and a Trust allow you to dispose of your assets when you die. However, a Will must go through probate, whereas a Trust avoids probate.
Probate is a court process where a Judge appoints an Executor of your estate and supervises their actions. Due to the congested court system, the average probate takes 15 to 18 months before assets are distributed to your beneficiaries, and both the Executor and attorney are entitled to a fee that is a percentage of your estate. It is neither a time- nor cost-efficient way of distributing assets.
No, California does not have a separate estate or inheritance tax.
The cost varies with complexity. We offer a no-cost, no-obligation initial consultation to review your situation and provide an estimate. Typically, for a fairly simple estate plan — a Living Trust, Will, Durable Power of Attorney, Advance Health Care Directive, and deeds transferring your real property into your Trust — the cost is $3,000 to $4,000, on either an hourly or fixed-fee basis.
Thoughtful estate and tax planning begins with a conversation. We'd be glad to help you understand your options and take the next step.
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