Our Services
Estate Planning
Nearly everyone wants to ensure the safety and stability of their families. But even so, many people overlook just how much planning and forethought are really necessary in order to satisfy the legal requirements of estate planning for the future.
Probate
Probate is the court-supervised process for handling a person's estate after they pass away. This includes:
Validating the will (if there is one)
Managing property
Settling debts
Distributing assets to heirs
We make the California probate process as simple and efficient as possible - so you can focus on what matters.
New law affecting small estates and probate filings takes effect April 1, 2025.
Trusts
Trusts are one of the most powerful tools in estate planning. A properly structured living trust can:
Avoid the time and cost of probate
Minimize estate taxes
Protect assets from unnecessary court supervision
Appoint a trustee to manage finances if you become incapacitated
Ensure your property is distributed exactly as you intend
Living trusts are not for everyone - in some cases, court supervision may be appropriate. We'll help you decide what's best for your situation.
Powers of Attorney
Many people plan for death - but not incapacity. We'll help you prepare for both. A Durable Power of Attorney allows you to legally appoint someone you trust to:
Make medical decisions if you're seriously injured or unconscious
Manage your finances and pay your bills if you can't
Avoid confusion or family disputes in medical crises
The tragic case of Terri Schiavo, which involved years of legal battles due to lack of clear instructions, is a reminder of how essential this document can be.
Plan Ahead with Confidence, Rely on Experience.
At Advance Planning, we make it easier to understand your legal options, connect with a qualified attorney, and start building a secure plan for your family.
_edited.png){kind=small}
Focused on Estate Planning & Probate
We specialize exclusively in California estate planning and probate law delivering expert legal guidance tailored to your family’s needs.
_edited.png)
Led by an Experienced Attorney
Attorney Grant A. Toeppen is licensed in California and New York, bringing years of legal experience and mediation skills to every case.
Serving Multiple California Counties
We assist clients across the Bay Area and Central Valley, with a focus on:
Alameda County: Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Dublin, Emeryville, Fremont, Hayward, Livermore, Newark, Oakland, Piedmont, Pleasanton, San Leandro, Union City, Ashland, Castlewood, Castro Valley, Cherryland, Fairview, Happy Valley, Hillcrest Knolls, San Lorenzo, and Sunol
Contra Costa County: Antioch, Brentwood, Clayton, Concord, El Cerrito, Hercules, Lafayette, Martinez, Oakley, Orinda, Pinole, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Richmond, San Pablo, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Danville, and Moraga
Also serving: Santa Clara, San Mateo, San Francisco, San Joaquin, and Stanislaus counties