I specialize in estate planning, probate, trust administration and advising fiduciaries and beneficiaries.

Every family is unique and I’ll be with you at every step, helping you make the best decisions for you and your loved ones.

Estate Planning

  • Create the Plan

    Step 1:

    Create the Plan

    No two people or families are exactly alike. I collaborate with you to create a comprehensive estate plan which reflects your uniqueness. Together, we work to find the best options for you and your family that meet your goals. I offer a wide array of estate planning services so that you have the right legal tool when you need it. I assist you in deciding “who does what” when/if you’re unable to act and “who gets what” in your legacy.

  • Fund the Plan

    Step 2:

    Fund the Plan

    Once your personalized estate plan is created, it is imperative that your assets are held appropriately. I provide instruction and guidance on properly funding your trust.

  • Administer the Plan

    Step 3:

    Administer the Plan

    The final phase of an estate plan (the part no one wants to think about) is the administration of the plan when a loved one has lost mental capacity or has passed. I work with people from the initial steps of an administration all the way through final distribution. I will guide and counsel you on complying with your fiduciary responsibilities.

Trust Administration & Probate

  • Navigate the Process

    Assist

    Navigate the Process

    Whether you’re an executor, trustee or beneficiary, I can shepherd you through the maze of probate or trust administration. I will help you navigate the numerous requirements of acting as a fiduciary to minimize your liability and maximize your compliance. If you are a beneficiary, I can advise you on your rights and help protect your interests.

  • "We followed Karolyn from her office in San Mateo County. We wanted her to be our attorney because we experienced her effectiveness when she was assigned to us to answer a question that no one had contacted us about for quite a while. Karolyn took on the problem, researched it, resolved it and contacted us with the outcome. She was very personable and caring. We highly recommend her."

    Carmen & Ray Menlo Park
  • Carmen & Ray

    "Karolyn helped me understand the estate trust process at each step of the way. I found that it holds both sensitive emotions and practical elements. She was timely, sensitive, helpful, and down-to-earth, and I recommend Karolyn wholeheartedly to anyone considering an estate plan and trust now, or in the future."

    LindaFairfax
  • Linda

    "If there is one word which describes my satisfaction of her work, it is: thoroughness. But she has other attributes. Karolyn has the knowledge and techniques required to get the assignment done. Karolyn is a pleasure to work with and I feel confident she will return a job on schedule - and in correct form."

    WiniSan Rafeal
  • Wini

    "I have been so grateful for Karolyn's help over the past year with issues related to the administration of my father's estate. During that time, she truly has become a trusted advisor. She is knowledgable, smart, and compassionate. She gives very good legal counsel, but perhaps more importantly, she gives practical advice that makes navigating this complex and difficult process a little easier."

    KristaSan Fransisco
  • Krista

    "Karolyn was clear, direct, and very helpful in tailoring the will and estate planning process to our needs. She helped clarify key issues, and was able to direct us to the solutions that worked best for our family. We strongly recommend her."

    Walt & LizSebastopol
  • Walt & Liz

    "Beyond just clearly knowing her trade and all the legal details of such, she is extremely personable, and takes interest in your goals and who you are. All in all, it was a totally positive experience, and would recommend her without hesitation for any of your estate planning or handling needs."

    Rich Castro Valley
  • Rich

    Karolyn was extremely thorough and timely. She explained legal terms and processes in an understandable way that allowed me to make informed decisions about difficult topics. Thanks to Karolyn's professionalism, I can rest assured that the most essential matters are in order when the inevitable arises. I highly recommend Karolyn to others with any estate planning needs.

    AndreaSan Francisco
  • Andrea

    As executor of my parents' estate, I was in the process of interviewing attorneys already when a serendipitous situation led me to Karolyn. We liked her straightforward manner, her ability to work efficiently from her laptop, and her ability to meet us exactly where we were in our process as well as logistically, in our home. Karolyn was efficient, an excellent communicator, and helped me perform effectively in my role as trustee and in relationship to my siblings. I would definitely recommend Karolyn as an estate attorney.

    RobinSanta Cruz
  • Robin

    I had the good fortune to be referred to Karolyn Poppin through my financial adviser at a very stressful time in my life. She helped me put together a trust & will. It was made very simple for me. I would recommend her whole-heatedly for any legal needs that you may have.

    MLSanta Rosa
  • ML

    Thanks for all your help on my mom’s estate. You made it such a painless experience.

    TomSan Rafael

Start Protecting Those You Love

Contact me for a free consultation and let’s get started today.