Helpful reading and forms
A few short guides and simple intake forms. No fancy language — just the things I wish more families knew.
Read this first
Quick guides to help you understand your options before deciding anything.
Do you really need a lawyer?
An honest look at when an attorney is worth it and when an LDA like me is enough.
Probate in California, in plain words
What probate actually is, who has to go through it, and what to expect.
Property deeds, explained simply
A short guide to California property deeds for seniors and families thinking about the house.
Tell me about your situation
Short forms so I know what paperwork you need before we talk. Fill in what you can. We'll cover the rest on the call.
Will questionnaire
Tell me a bit about your family and what you want, and I'll be in touch with what comes next.
Estate planning questionnaire
A short form for wills, trusts, and powers of attorney all together.
Deed questionnaire
For adding a name, transferring the house, or fixing a property title.
Probate questionnaire
After a loss in the family. Take your time. I'll handle the rest from here.
Medical records questionnaire
For requesting medical records you need for benefits, court, or family decisions.
Questions I get a lot
What's the difference between you and a lawyer?
A Legal Document Assistant (LDA) prepares your paperwork based on what you tell me. I can't give legal advice or pick documents for you. An attorney can advise you, choose what documents fit your case, and speak for you in court. I work with people who already know what they want and just need the papers prepared properly.
How does pricing work?
It depends on what you need. Before I start any work, I tell you the price for your situation, plain and simple, so there are no surprises later. Just give me a call and we'll go through it.
Can my kids or my caregiver be there?
Yes, please. A lot of my clients bring their son, daughter, or a trusted friend. It's your paperwork, so bring whoever helps you understand it.
Do you speak Tagalog?
Yes. I work with a lot of Filipino families. We can talk in English, Tagalog, or a mix, whichever way is easier for you.
What if I really do need an attorney?
If your situation needs legal advice or someone to represent you in court, I'll tell you straight. I'd rather point you to the right person than take work that isn't a fit for me.
A few people I trust (optional)
If you need help outside what I do, here are independent people my clients have worked with.
Vanna (Notary Public)
Mobile or in-person notary if your papers need a notarized signature.
Phone: (619) 772-3573
Jeff Mejia (Realtor)
For families who are buying, selling, or making a decision about the house.
Phone: (619) 777-0340
To be honest with you: Jeff is my son. I'm telling you that up front. He's an independent realtor, not part of my business, and you are free to pick anyone you trust.
And no kickbacks: I do not get paid, tipped, or thanked with anything for mentioning these people. They're listed because my clients have had good experiences with them.
Still have questions?
Legal paperwork brings up a lot of questions. Ask me in English or Tagalog. I'll take my time to answer.