Ken Begun | San Ramon Estate Lawyer

Case #1: A widow after a 23-year second marriage was partially disinherited by her husband in favor of his children. I represented the widow against her stepsons who refused to provide her an inheritance. We obtained a good settlement including the family residence. My efforts brought her resolution and peace-of-mind. Case #2: I represented a daughter whose father went sailing and was never seen, found or heard from again. We brought probate court proceedings to have him determined dead and to obtain an order of death. My client was then able to obtain some closure on this tragedy and to also claim her father's life insurance. Case #3: I counseled an estate plan client to refrain from disinheriting her son and to take alternate actions. She communicated to me: ""I just want a hug from my son before I die."" She took other action and was ecstatic to inform me that she and her son have reconciled and she has received the hug she dreamed for. She was thrilled she did not disinherit him as she had originally intended.

Lots of hard work, time and energy. Building strong relationships with other professionals and advisors. Building a reputation for being a qualified specialist in estate planning, trust and probate law. Being known as responsive to clients' needs and giving practical and sound advice.

No two lawyers (like no two persons) are alike but some of the traits that I believe a client should look for in their lawyer are: · Being responsive to clients (return phone calls and emails promptly) · Being a good listener · Being competent in the particular area of law · Being empathetic and kind · Timeliness of work · Speaking in plain English with them not at them · Having integrity

Knowledge of local courts is helpful to know the procedures, protocols and issues that particular Judges and court staff wish to see.

I do not provide free consultations (phone or in office). However, I will speak with a potential client by phone to learn more of their concerns, needs and goals and the nature of their legal issues. I will not (and cannot per State Bar Rules of Ethics) give specific legal advice until I am retained as their attorney. I would explain my intake procedures for a new client and I would briefly explain in general terms the different estate plan alternatives for their consideration and our future discussion. I may briefly discuss the generalities of the estate tax system and how that may affect their trust or estate plan. I would discuss my fees.

I would need to know the client's name and the names of any interested parties and persons. I would like to know what is the nature of the client's concerns. Why are they contacting a lawyer? If the matter concerns a deceased person, then when did the person die and their county of residence? Did the deceased person have any estate plan documents such as a Will or a Trust? What are the assets currently known as part of the trust or estate?

I am a certified specialist by the State Bar of California in Estate Planning, Probate and Trust Law (Board of Legal Specialization). I have been an Associate Professor of Law teaching law school Wills and Trusts. I am also the past Chair of the Estate Planning, Probate and Trust Law Advisory Commission to the California State Bar which is charged with certifying lawyers as specialists in Estate planning, Probate and Trust Law. I have over 30 years experience as a lawyer and bring this experience to my clients in a practical and common-sense way. I do my best to speak in plain English and not over-the-top legalese and tax jargon. My clients tell me I am a good listener and I do my very best to hear what my clients are saying are their concerns, hopes, dreams and fears.

• California State Bar Association | Member
  Contra Costa County Bar Association | Member
  Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley | President

• Over 30 years of experience practicing law.

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