Monterey Peninsula Law Inc. is devoted to our clients. We are knowledgeable, expedient, and meticulous about details. We are honest and provide our clients with a realistic evaluation of their case. Our firm is extremely competitive when it comes to fees. Our main purpose is to be in your corner all the way. ​ Dutch Meyer, Attorney

Debra Crawford Annis is a certified family law specialist (certified by the Board of Legal Specialization, State Bar of California). Debra is also a family law mediator. Debra’s practice consists primarily of family law matters. She also practices in the areas of estate planning and probate. Debra has been practicing law for over 26 years. Debra attended Southwestern University School of Law in Los Angeles where she graduated cum laude. Debra’s family law experience has been enriched by her service to the Women's Legal Clinic where she served as a volunteer attorney and as the President of the Board of Directors. Debra received an Outstanding Achievement Award from Mayor Bradley for her valuable service to the community with the Women's Legal Clinic. Debra has lectured on the subject of 'move away' custody cases and independent adoptions. Debra is also a family law mediator. She has been on the mediator panel of the innovative Mosten Mediation Centers. Debra enjoys mediation and helping families structure their new lives apart instead of tearing each other apart in litigation and protracted court battles. Debra is also a tough and seasoned litigator if that is the avenue you choose. Debra has also handled appellate cases. Debra has been a colunmist in the Carmel Valley Newletter and is the author of the newly revised Cal Divorce 123, Your Guide to California Divorce. Cal Divorce 123 is a guide for people who want to understand the California divorce process and actively participate in their cases -- whether as their own legal representative or an active partner with their attorney. The Guide is now available in separate modules or as a complete kit. Debra is devoted to the concept that people can help themselves and make informed decisions in their legal matters. She strives to provide education to people so that they can achieve this objective. She also helps you decide the tone of your case.

As a second-generation personal injury lawyer, I grew up with an understanding of the uphill battle faced by injured Californians. Still, I had much to learn about the difference we could make in an individual’s life. It didn’t take long. One of my first clients was a sweet 80-year-old woman who had been in a terrible wreck and suffered multiple fractures. The insurance company, taking advantage of her trust, attempted to egregiously underpay her. Overwhelmed with anxiety, she contacted me, and I increased her offer by almost 20x. That result changed so much for both of us. For her, it gave her the power to afford a safe replacement vehicle, to change her living space to accommodate her new limitations, and to obtain additional in-home care. For me, it cemented my desire to serve individuals and families who find themselves at the mercy of an insurance company’s business practices. I have been proudly doing so ever since. Outside of work, you’ll likely find me jumping on a trampoline or singing along to the latest Disney hit with my wife and three young kids. If not that, I’m probably training for a triathlon, where I enjoy pushing the limits of my endurance.

As a former insurance claims adjuster, I appreciate the emotional toll an accident has on the injured person. Empathy and compassion are hard to come by in this world, but it is my primary focus to fill that need for every one of our clients while we handle their personal injury claim. I consider the conclusion of every case to be a defining career moment. Every client deserves to receive everything they are entitled to receive, and each time that happens, I find satisfaction. Whether it is a multi-million dollar case, or the conclusion of a case with minimal treatment and a sore neck, it is the satisfaction that I did everything that could be done. Growing up in Las Vegas, Nevada, I participated in many sports, lettering in football, soccer, and baseball, and playing college football for two years. I enjoy the outdoors and spend as much time as possible hiking and walking. My love of the theater brings me to as many performances that I can take in, and I work as a volunteer backstage, or in the technical booth frequently.

Over the span of my life, I have watched my father represent countless injured Californians. During these years, I met many kind and well-meaning people and witnessed regular abuses by insurance companies that refuse to adequately compensate individuals. I feel a deep compassion for those whose lives were dramatically impacted in a moment, and I am lucky to devote my career to fighting for justice on their behalf. I enjoy getting to know my clients and understanding the impact their injuries have had on their lives. The insurance companies regularly marginalize injured victims’ struggles and injuries, and it is my goal and passion to bring their personal experiences to light and be their advocate and voice. In my spare time, I can usually be found on a hiking trail or a local beach with my dog.