The Urbatsch Law Firm P.C. - Berkeley, CA

Specialized Special Needs and Estate Planning in Berkeley

Planning for the future of a child or loved one with special needs requires a highly specialized legal touch. At The Urbatsch Law Firm P.C., we are dedicated to helping families navigate the complex intersections of estate planning, public benefits, and elder law. Located in Berkeley, California, our firm is led by Kevin Urbatsch, a nationally renowned expert, author, and advocate in the field of special needs planning. We help families protect their hard-earned wealth, secure essential public benefits like Medi-Cal and SSI, and establish lasting legacies. Whether you need to hire an estate planning lawyer to draft a comprehensive special needs trust or seek to find an elder law attorney to protect an aging parent, our compassionate team is here to guide you with decades of specialized experience.

Comprehensive Services for Wealth Preservation and Special Needs

Our practice goes far beyond standard estate planning. We focus on complex legal structures that safeguard your loved one's financial security without compromising their eligibility for government assistance. Our primary practice areas include:

• Special Needs Planning & Trusts: We design custom Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) that allow parents to leave assets to their children with disabilities, providing a higher quality of life while preserving critical public benefits.
• Elder Law & Medi-Cal Planning: We assist seniors and their families in planning for long-term care, preserving assets against the high cost of nursing homes, and navigating Medi-Cal eligibility guidelines.
• Settlement Planning: When a minor or a person with a disability receives a lawsuit settlement or judgment, we establish minor's settlement trusts and qualified settlement funds to protect their immediate and long-term financial welfare.
• Wills, Trusts, and Probate Administration: From preparing simple living trusts and wills to administering complex estates after a loved one's passing, we ensure the probate and trust administration process runs smoothly and efficiently.

We are dedicated to providing clear, accessible guidance that empowers families to make informed decisions about their futures. If you require expert counsel on establishing a trust or navigating elder care options, we are ready to assist.

Why The Urbatsch Law Firm P.C. is a Trusted Leader

Successfully planning for a loved one with special needs requires deep technical expertise and genuine compassion. Families across California trust our firm for several key reasons:

• National Authority on Special Needs Planning: Our founder, Kevin Urbatsch, serves as the National Director of the Academy of Special Needs Planners (ASNP) and is a Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC), representing the top 1% of trust lawyers nationwide.
• Published Treatises and Educational Leadership: Kevin has authored multiple authoritative books and treatises on special needs trusts for Nolo Press and Continuing Education of the Bar (CEB), and he regularly trains probate judges and bank regulators nationwide.
• Award-Winning Advocacy: Recognized as a Northern California Super Lawyer and named KRON-TV's 'Best of the Bay' estate planning attorney, Kevin has also been recognized as a Top Child Advocate by Parenting Magazine.

We approach every case with the meticulous preparation, integrity, and warmth that your family deserves, ensuring peace of mind for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Special Needs Trusts

What is a Special Needs Trust (SNT)"

A Special Needs Trust is a legal arrangement designed to hold assets for the benefit of an individual with physical or mental disabilities. Because the assets are managed by a trustee and are not directly owned by the beneficiary, they do not disqualify the individual from receiving needs-based government assistance like SSI or Medi-Cal.

When should a family establish a special needs plan"

The best time to plan is as early as possible. Establishing a special needs plan early ensures that your loved one is protected in the event of an unexpected tragedy and prevents accidental disqualification from public benefits due to direct inheritances.

Contact Our Berkeley Estate Planning Firm Today

Your family's financial security and peace of mind are too important to leave to chance. Contact The Urbatsch Law Firm P.C. today to discuss your estate planning, elder law, or special needs planning needs. Our dedicated team is ready to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and craft a personalized plan that protects those who matter most.