Contact & Office Information

Office Status

Robert E. Williams practiced law on the Monterey Peninsula for 48 years, concentrating on estate planning, wills and trusts, probate, and the formation and guidance of non-profit organizations. He retired from his downtown Monterey office in August 2023.

Former office: 215 W. Franklin St, #219, Monterey, CA 93940 (view on map).

To learn more about Bob's background, visit the About page, or read his client letters on charitable giving and organ donation.

Looking for an Estate Planning Attorney?

If you need help with a will, living trust, probate, trust administration or a non-profit organization, these steps can help you find a qualified California attorney:

• Check the attorney's license. The State Bar of California offers a free Attorney Search at calbar.ca.gov showing whether a lawyer is licensed and in good standing.
• Use a certified lawyer referral service. The State Bar certifies lawyer referral services that screen attorneys and can match you with someone who handles estate planning or probate.
• Ask about experience. Look for an attorney who regularly handles the type of matter you need, such as trust administration or special needs planning.
• Ask about fees up front. Many estate planning attorneys offer flat fees for standard plans; probate fees in California are set by statute.

How to Prepare for a First Meeting

Whoever you meet with, gathering the following information in advance makes the first meeting more productive:

• Copies of any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney and health care directives.
• Deeds to real estate and recent property tax statements.
• Recent statements for bank, brokerage and retirement accounts.
• Life insurance policies and current beneficiary designations.
• Names, ages and contact information for your spouse, children and other beneficiaries.
• Your thoughts on who should serve as trustee, executor, financial agent, health care agent and guardian of minor children.
• A list of questions or concerns, including any family member with special needs or any charitable goals.

For background before your meeting, browse the estate planning articles, starting with Will vs. Living Trust in California and The California Probate Process, Step by Step.

This website provides general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship.