Probate and Trust Attorney

Consultant

Services

I focus on probate and trusts—the legal issues families face when a loved one dies, when a trust or will isn’t clear, or when something doesn’t feel right. Since 1993, I’ve helped clients navigate high-stakes situations involving property, inheritance, and family conflict with a steady hand and practical strategy. I also provide probate representation in all 58 counties  through out California.

Probate

If your loved one passed away without a trust—or with documents that may need to be challenged—probate can be unavoidable. I guide clients through filings, notices, court requirements, and distribution issues so you can move forward with fewer surprises and delays.

Trusts

Trust administration and trust disputes often involve unanswered questions: Who is responsible? What are beneficiaries entitled to? Is a trustee acting properly? I help clients enforce trust terms, resolve disagreements, and pursue court action when informal solutions aren’t enough.

Testimonials

“Ms. MacCarley assisted me with a challenging probate matter. She was professional and efficient throughout the case and the results were excellent.”

★★★★★
Tom Bird, Chatsworth

“Over the past 15 years, I have used Lisa MacCarley for many legal matters. She is exactly what you need in an attorney—smart, responsive, and knowledgeable.”

★★★★★
Mary Ellen

Consulting

Stuck on a probate or trust issue and need a second opinion? I offer focused, practical consulting—so you can understand your options, your risks, and and decide on your next best step.

Expert Witness

In probate and trust disputes, details matter. I provide expert analysis and testimony grounded in real-world court expectations—what tends to help, what tends to hurt, and what decision-makers typically want to see.

Speaking

Available for community presentations, professional trainings, and conference talks on probate, trust disputes, and navigating court processes with less confusion and stress.

Experience

and Professionalism

I went to law school specifically to become a probate attorney because I wanted to help people through the realities of aging, incapacity, and death—moments that are difficult even when families agree.

I have been in practice since 1993, and I bring that experience to each matter with clear communication, steady strategy, and a respect for what’s at stake—your family relationships, your time, and your future. With courts increasingly using technology for many hearings, I’m able to serve clients across California’s 58 counties.

Passion

and Persistence

Years ago, I heard a speaker describe the value of making the human sojourn a little less painful and difficult. That idea has stayed with me—and it guides how I practice law.



Probate and trust matters can bring grief, frustration, and conflict to the surface. My role is to bring focus: to cut through confusion, explain what the court process really requires, and help you pursue an outcome that is fair, lawful, and achievable.

For Families  

Navigating Probate

Most people who come to me about probate are not looking for legal theory—they’re looking for clarity after hitting a wall. They’re spouses, adult children, executors, or family members who have tried to handle things on their own and suddenly realize banks won’t talk to them, title companies won’t release information, or the court paperwork is far more complicated than expected. Often, they’re responsible, capable people who simply didn’t anticipate how many rules, deadlines, and county-specific requirements are involved, and they want to make sure they don’t make a mistake that costs time, money, or peace of mind. They come to me because they want someone experienced, organized, and steady to step in, take over the legal burden, and guide the estate to resolution with as little stress as possible.

Proud Supporter of the

#FreeBritney Movement!

On July 22, 2020, I attended a #FreeBritney rally for the first time. Kevin Wu had asked me to attend in order to increase attendance, and I showed up to support him. 


To be honest, I had no idea what happened to Britney Jean Spears in February, 2008. Tess Barker and Babs Gray of Britney’s Gram came over to introduce themselves and handed me a few documents from the file. This would be the first time I had learned that Britney had attempted to retain an attorney named Adam Streisand. Quarantine allowed me time and opportunity to take a deeper dive and …

Lisa in the Media

I’m here  to help.

Request a Quote

* In some matters, I will evaluate whether it makes sense for us to work on a contingency fee basis. Not all cases qualify, but I am open to discussing this arrangement with you.