Contact Info

  • Location 16450 Los Gatos Blvd #208, Los Gatos, CA 95032, USA
  • Phone +1 408-356-6886
  • Website https://www.desmaraislaw.com/

Reviews

  • Michael is truly the best estate/trust attorney in the Bay Area for complex cases. If you ask around you’ll definitely hear his name come up on top. He is exceptionally knowledgeable and efficient. He made a challenging endeavor much easier than I imagined. I really appreciated his professionalism and friendly staff.
  • Michael Desmarais is a highly esteemed attorney specializing in estate planning, administration, and litigation, with over 30 years of experience. Based in Los Gatos, California, he is a California Board of Legal Specialization Certified Specialist in Probate, Estate Planning, and Trust Law since 1990. His expertise includes will contests, fiduciary litigation, accounting disputes, and financial elder abuse cases. Mr. Desmarais has a distinguished record of recovering millions for victims of elder financial abuse. He has also served as an expert witness in civil and criminal cases, notably contributing to a significant criminal case for the San Francisco District Attorney's office. His professional accolades include an "AV" rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest for skill and ethics, and consistent recognition on the Super Lawyers list from 2006 to 2024. Clients and peers commend his legal knowledge, analytical skills, and commitment to excellence. Michael G. Desmarais is a leading choice for trust and estate legal matters, backed by a strong reputation for professionalism and client advocacy.
  • I highly recommend Michael G. Desmarais Law Office for estate planning. Michael took the time to understand my family’s unique situation, thoroughly explained the entire process, and made sure our plan was tailored to our needs. His attention to detail and genuine care were greatly appreciated.
  • This guy is absolutely heartless..... I was emailing with the trustee and his lawyer regarding a trust my father set up... Michael was not even on the email list when I started my correspondence....not sure who added him... My father passed almost 3 years ago, and none of his 6 kids who are heirs, have received one dime of the principle of a 6.5 million dollar trust. Administrative fees, however, have been almost $400,000..... This was his very professionally stated response to the lawyer I was talking to: "Jim Forgive for saying that it’s nice to know that someone other than me has to put up with malicious fruitcakes ....." I am working with the San Jose Mercury news to have them investigated for the many suspicious actions that they have taken with regard to our trust. Do yourself a favor and stay far away from him... Jan 20, 2025. Update It's very interesting that within the last week 4 people have rated this guy five stars.... That's about the time that I commented back to him regarding the "malicious fruitcake" comment.... Things that make you go hmm......
  • Michael helped me through a difficult process. He has decades of experience and is very professional. I would highly recommend him.

Contact Us

About Michael G Desmarais Law Office

When it comes to navigating the often intricate and sensitive areas of estate planning, trust administration, or probate litigation, having an exceptionally knowledgeable and compassionate legal professional by your side is not just helpful, it's essential. For residents across California, particularly those in the Bay Area, the name Michael G. Desmarais Law Office frequently comes up as a leading authority. With a long-standing reputation for expertise, a deep commitment to clients, and a track record of success, Michael G. Desmarais offers unparalleled legal services in these specialized fields.

The complexities of estate and trust law can be daunting. Whether you are seeking to plan for the future of your assets, administer a trust, or resolve a dispute involving a will or trust, the nuances of the law require a specialist. Michael G. Desmarais stands out in this regard, not only for his extensive experience but also for his certification as a specialist by the California Board of Legal Specialization in Probate, Estate Planning, and Trust Law – a distinction he has held since 1990. This credential signifies a level of expertise and dedication that is uncommon, assuring clients that they are receiving advice from a true leader in the field.

Clients consistently praise Michael Desmarais for his ability to simplify challenging legal processes and for his unwavering professionalism. His firm is dedicated to providing clear guidance, meticulous attention to detail, and robust advocacy, ensuring that your legal matters are handled with the utmost care and efficiency. This article will explore the specific services offered by Michael G. Desmarais Law Office, highlight their unique strengths, detail their accessible location, and explain why they are a top choice for individuals and families throughout California seeking specialized legal assistance.

Location and Accessibility

Conveniently located in the picturesque town of Los Gatos, California, the Michael G. Desmarais Law Office is easily accessible for clients throughout the greater Bay Area and surrounding communities. Their office is situated at 16450 Los Gatos Blvd #208, Los Gatos, CA 95032, USA. This central location on Los Gatos Boulevard places the firm in a professional and well-known area, making it simple to find for both local residents and those traveling from further afield.

Being positioned in Los Gatos allows the firm to effectively serve a broad clientele across Santa Clara County and beyond. The accessibility of their office is a key advantage, especially for cases that may require multiple meetings or extensive document review. Clients can expect a professional and welcoming environment designed to facilitate open communication and comfortable consultations. The firm’s location ensures that top-tier legal expertise is within easy reach for those in need of specialized estate and trust law services in California.

Services Offered

Michael G. Desmarais Law Office specializes in a focused range of legal services, allowing them to offer unparalleled depth and expertise in each area. Their practice is dedicated to the intricate and often sensitive matters concerning estates, trusts, and probate. This specialization ensures that clients receive highly informed and strategic legal counsel. Their core services include:

  • Estate Planning: Crafting comprehensive plans that include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advanced healthcare directives to ensure assets are distributed according to client wishes, minimize tax implications, and avoid probate where possible. Michael Desmarais is highly skilled in creating customized strategies for estates of all sizes and complexities.

  • Trust Administration: Guiding trustees through the complex process of administering a trust, including managing assets, fulfilling fiduciary duties, distributing assets to beneficiaries, and handling any related legal or tax obligations. This ensures trusts are administered smoothly and in compliance with legal requirements.

  • Probate Litigation: Representing clients in disputes arising during the probate process, such as will contests, challenges to the validity of trusts, and disputes over asset distribution. Mr. Desmarais’s extensive litigation experience is particularly valuable in these contentious matters.

  • Fiduciary Litigation: Addressing legal disputes involving the duties and responsibilities of fiduciaries, including trustees, executors, and conservators. This can involve claims of breach of fiduciary duty, mismanagement of assets, or accounting disputes.

  • Will Contests: Litigating cases where the validity of a will is challenged, often on grounds such as undue influence, lack of testamentary capacity, or improper execution. Michael Desmarais possesses deep knowledge of the legal standards and procedures involved in these sensitive cases.

  • Financial Elder Abuse Cases: Advocating for elderly clients who have been victims of financial exploitation, working to recover misappropriated funds and hold perpetrators accountable. Mr. Desmarais has a distinguished record of recovering millions for victims in these critical cases.

  • Accounting Disputes: Resolving disagreements and inaccuracies in accountings provided by fiduciaries, ensuring transparency and proper management of assets.

Features / Highlights

The Michael G. Desmarais Law Office distinguishes itself through several key features and highlights that underscore its leadership in the field of estate and trust law:

  • Certified Specialist: Michael Desmarais has been a California Board of Legal Specialization Certified Specialist in Probate, Estate Planning, and Trust Law since 1990. This is a rigorous certification that requires extensive experience, advanced education, and peer review, signifying a top-tier level of expertise.

  • Extensive Experience: With over 30 years of experience, Michael Desmarais brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of complex legal nuances in estate planning, administration, and litigation. This long tenure in the field ensures a seasoned and insightful approach to every case.

  • Recognized Excellence: He holds an "AV" rating from Martindale-Hubbell, which is the highest possible rating for legal skill and ethics, reflecting broad recognition from his peers. Furthermore, he has been consistently named to the Super Lawyers list from 2006 to 2024, an honor reserved for only the top percentage of attorneys in California.

  • Proven Track Record in Elder Abuse Cases: Mr. Desmarais has a distinguished record of successfully recovering millions for victims of elder financial abuse, demonstrating a profound commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and achieving justice.

  • Expert Witness Credentials: His expertise is so highly regarded that he has served as an expert witness in both civil and criminal cases, including contributing significantly to a criminal case for the San Francisco District Attorney's office. This speaks volumes about his authority and credibility in the legal community.

  • Client Commendation for Complex Cases: Clients consistently laud him as "truly the best estate/trust attorney in the Bay Area for complex cases." Testimonials emphasize his exceptional knowledge, efficiency, professionalism, and the supportive nature of his staff, making challenging legal endeavors more manageable.

  • Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Peers and clients alike commend his superior legal knowledge and analytical skills, highlighting his ability to dissect intricate problems and devise effective solutions.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific public promotions or special offers are not explicitly listed, it is customary for specialized legal practices like the Michael G. Desmarais Law Office to offer initial consultations. These consultations provide an opportunity for prospective clients in California to discuss their specific legal needs, understand the scope of work required, and receive an initial assessment of their situation without immediate financial commitment. It is always recommended to contact the firm directly to inquire about their consultation process, fee structure, and any initial discovery sessions that might be available to help you determine if their services align with your requirements.

Contact Information

For those in California seeking expert legal counsel in estate planning, trust administration, or probate litigation, the Michael G. Desmarais Law Office is readily available to assist. You can reach them through the following contact details:

  • Address: 16450 Los Gatos Blvd #208, Los Gatos, CA 95032, USA

  • Phone: (408) 356-6886

  • Mobile Phone: +1 408-356-6886

It is advisable to call during standard business hours to schedule an appointment or to speak with a member of their professional staff who can guide you through the initial steps. Their team is prepared to offer the personalized attention and expert guidance you need for your complex legal matters.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across California, particularly those in the Bay Area, Michael G. Desmarais Law Office stands out as an unparalleled choice for estate, trust, and probate legal matters. The firm’s suitability for locals stems from several critical factors, starting with Michael Desmarais’s highly specialized expertise. As a California Board of Legal Specialization Certified Specialist since 1990, he possesses a depth of knowledge that few attorneys can match in these intricate fields. This certification, combined with over three decades of experience, ensures that clients receive not just legal advice, but highly strategic and authoritative guidance.

Client testimonials consistently highlight his ability to handle "complex cases" with exceptional knowledge and efficiency, making challenging situations "much easier." This direct feedback from real clients underscores his practical effectiveness and the compassionate approach of his office staff. Furthermore, his distinguished record in recovering millions for victims of elder financial abuse demonstrates a profound commitment to justice and protecting vulnerable members of the community, a service that is incredibly valuable to California families.

The consistent recognition on the Super Lawyers list and an "AV" rating from Martindale-Hubbell are not just accolades; they are strong indicators of peer respect and a proven track record of ethical and highly skilled practice. For Californians facing sensitive issues like will contests, trust administration, or needing robust estate planning, knowing that their attorney is an acknowledged leader and expert witness provides immense peace of mind. Michael G. Desmarais Law Office offers a rare combination of specialized knowledge, extensive experience, and unwavering client advocacy, making it an ideal and trustworthy legal partner for the local community.

Michael G Desmarais Law Office Location

16450 Los Gatos Blvd #208, Los Gatos, CA 95032, USA

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