Legal Expertise with Compassion and Clarity

Estate Planning and Probate Attorney in San Diego County

Experience You Can Rely On. Service You Can Understand.

Welcome to Leo Law Office, APLC, where Attorney Shawn Leo brings corporate legal experience informing practical, compliance-minded estate planning to individuals, families, and businesses. With a focus on estate planning, probate, trust litigation, business succession, and elder law, Shawn offers tailored legal strategies informed by experience in corporate law, finance, and regulatory compliance. Learn how our focused legal services can help you understand your options by booking a 15-minute consultation today.

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Comprehensive Practice Areas

Our goal is to provide individuals, families, and business owners with clear, strategic solutions informed by their specific needs. Click on a practice area to explore below or contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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Estate Planning and Probate Legal Services

Planning for the future involves more than asset distribution—it requires careful legal consideration. As an experienced estate planning and probate attorney, Shawn Leo helps individuals and families create clear, legally sound plans aligned with their objectives and applicable law. Whether clients need a will, trust, or guidance through the probate process, Shawn provides legal services tailored to the specific circumstances of each matter. Contact the firm today to schedule a consultation and discuss available planning options.

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Helping Families Navigate Elder Law and Medi-Cal

Navigating the complexities of aging, long-term care, and public benefits can be overwhelming without informed legal guidance. As an elder law and Medicare/Medi-Cal attorney, Shawn Leo assists seniors and their families with planning considerations related to asset protection and Medi-Cal eligibility. He provides tailored legal strategies designed to address health care planning and financial considerations under applicable law. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your situation.

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Legal Support for Business Succession Planning

A well-structured business succession plan supports an orderly transition of leadership and helps address the future of your company. Attorney Shawn Leo works closely with business owners to develop customized legal strategies that align with their goals, minimize risk, and address business value considerations where applicable. Schedule a consultation today to begin planning for your business’s next chapter.

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ACCREDITATIONS & ASSOCIATIONS

Client Feedback and Reviews

Client testimonials reflect individual experiences and do not guarantee similar outcomes. Legal results depend on the specific facts and circumstances of each matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to frequently asked questions about our Leo Law Office, APLC.

  • What distinguishes Leo Law Office, APLC’s approach?

    Leo Law Office, APLC provides estate planning and probate legal services to clients throughout San Diego County with an emphasis on clear guidance, careful planning, and individualized legal support. The firm assists with a range of matters, including trusts, probate administration, business succession planning, and elder law, tailoring each engagement to the specific circumstances involved.


    Attorney Shawn Leo brings corporate legal experience that informs a practical, compliance-minded approach to estate planning and probate matters. His background in corporate and financial legal work supports thoughtful issue-spotting and structured planning, particularly in more complex legal situations. Clients work directly with the attorney and can expect straightforward communication throughout the process.


    Leo Law Office focuses on providing legal services in a professional, accessible manner, prioritizing clarity, transparency, and informed decision-making.

  • What is your hourly rate?

    Hourly rates typically start at $375 and may increase depending on the nature and complexity of the matter, including litigation, contested proceedings, or matters involving multiple estates. Certain services may be offered at flat fees when appropriate; any flat-fee arrangement will clearly outline what is included and excluded before work begins.

  • Do you offer consultations?

    Yes, we offer consultations. Note, a consultation generally lasts up to 15 minutes. Paid consultations may be available where document review is requested.

  • Does your firm take cases on contingency?

    Yes, however, such arrangements are solely at our discretion.

  • Does your law office have a notary?

    Yes, notary services are by appointment only.

  • Does your firm handle criminal cases?

    No, we do not handle criminal matters.

Legal Insights & Updates
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Can an Irrevocable Trust be Terminated?

By Leo Law Office APLC • February 6, 2025
In California, irrevocable trusts are a popular estate planning tool, primarily because they offer tax benefits and provide asset protection. Once assets are transferred into an irrevocable trust, the grantor typically cannot alter the terms or reclaim the assets.
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Declare Homestead on California Property Held in a Revocable Trust?

By Leo Law Office APLC • January 17, 2025
If you’re a California homeowner with property held in a revocable trust, you may be wondering whether you should or could declare homestead on that property. It’s an important question because declaring homestead can offer significant benefits, such as property
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Do You Need a Tax ID Number for Your Living Trust?

By Leo Law Office APLC • December 17, 2024
A common question when setting up a living trust is whether it needs a Tax ID Number (TIN), also known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The answer depends on the type of living trust you have and whether it’s
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The Benefits of Having a Gun Trust in California

By Leo Law Office, APLC • December 16, 2024
Owning firearms in California comes with strict regulations and legal requirements. Whether you’re a collector, a sports shooter, or someone who values responsible firearm ownership, establishing a gun trust can provide several key benefits that help you stay compliant.
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San Diego Probate Requirements: Understanding SDSC PR-198

By Leo Law Office, APLC • December 11, 2024
In San Diego, when initiating probate proceedings, it’s essential to adhere to specific local rules and requirements. One of the critical forms in this process is SDSC PR-198, titled “Attachment to Initial or Competing Petition for Probate.”
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California Partition of Real Property in Probate

By Leo Law Office, APLC • December 10, 2024
In California, probate proceedings often involve complicated issues when it comes to real property left behind by a decedent. When multiple heirs inherit a single piece of property—such as a home or land—they automatically become tenants-in-common, each holding a fractional interest. Disagreements frequently arise over whether to sell the property, keep it, or divide it. When these conflicts can’t be resolved privately, the legal remedy of partition may be necessary to solve the dispute.
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Estate Planning and Probate Attorney