Brenda Geiger - Lawyer in Carlsbad, CA

Brenda Louise Godfrey Geiger

Business Attorney at Carlsbad, CA

About
Contact
Reviews
Cost
Resume

Establishing a Family Trust

Trust Review and Update

About Brenda

Learn Brenda’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Business

20%

We help our business owner clients with their corporate governance (maintaining their corporations in good standing) and we help them start up new ventures.

19 years
Elder law

20%

We help senior plan for their long term care. By planning ahead we help our clients ensure that their

19 years
Estate planning

20%

Most of the cases I work on are trust-centered plans, but I also provide trust administration and probate services to my clients. I focus much of my attention on parents of minor children. Nearly 70% of parents with minor children have NO estate plan whatsoever. This means that if something happens to them, their children could be raised by someone they would never have wanted and what ever assets are left after probate delivered to their children at the tender age of 18!
... Read more
19 years
Probate

20%
Trusts

20%

Types of trusts: revocable, irrevocable, Qualified Personal Residence Trusts, A/B Trusts, Disclaimer Trusts, Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts, GST Trusts, Gifting Trusts, Domestic Asset Protection Trusts, Charitable Remainder Trusts, Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts
... Read more

Brenda is a Trusts & Estates Planning Attorney with her office located in Carlsbad. Brenda is a graduate of the University of San Diego School of Law where she served as an Editor on the San Diego International Law Journal and published a scholarly article in the Law Journal.

Brenda is involved in a variety of professional and community organizations such as the San Diego North County Bar Association, Inns of Court, North County Estate Planning Council, and the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce. She is admitted to practice in the United States Federal Court for the Ninth District and all California Courts and is a frequent speaker at educational events for other planning professionals.

Brenda is also a published author of many articles and 6 books on estate planning. The most recent book was released in March of 2017 and is called “Safeguarding the Nest, Fourth Edition”. Her passion is to help with asset protection for families to protect their children and heirs by keeping those families out of the court process at incapacity and death.

On a more personal note, Brenda is married to Len, the CEO of a technology company, has two children, Lenny and Taylor and two loveable German Shepards named Tiberius and Yara. She enjoys running, travel, writing and spending time with her family.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 18 years

State CA

Status Active

Acquired 2004

Updated 11/29/2022

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Brenda

Geiger Law Office, P.C.

1917 Palomar Oaks Way, Suite 160

Carlsbad, CA, 92008

Message Get Directions

Reviews

Write A Review

4.8 / 5.0

25 customer reviews

5 Star

92%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Greg | April 19, 2018

Establishing a Family Trust

The team at Geiger Law Office was highly professional and great to work with. They were very informative and thorough, giving us confidence in our resulting family Trust.

Posted by Kelly | January 8, 2018

Trust Review and Update

My husband and I had our first trust completed by Brenda and her helpful staff years ago. We needed a complete review and update to our trust and were very happy once again with their service. All details and options were clearly explained to us as and we were given time to discuss and consider each option. All our questions were answered with no surprises at the end. We highly recommend Brenda Geiger and her staff for any estate planning/trust needs.

Read less

Posted by Debbie | January 3, 2018

Estate Planning

The best thing we did in 2017 was establish our trust. My husband and I were procrastinating because it seemed so overwhelming to us. The Geiger team’s professionalism, organization, and patience made the entire process seem so simple. They helped address everything needed to protect our estate (including property, finances, medical directives, etc.). I highly recommend them to everyone!

Read less

Posted by anonymous | December 29, 2017

Great experience to redo my living trust

I used this law group to update my living trust, wills, and powers of attorney. My experience with them with positive from beginning to end. The attorney that worked with me and all of the staff were wonderful to deal with and everyone is very organized and knowledgeable. I can't recommend them highly enough! We contacted Mrs. Geiger's office at the suggestion from our CFP, to get our old trust updated. Not only is her office and staff very pleasant and professional, but we found our attorney Brenda, to be extremely knowledgeable and wonderful to work with. She took the time to ask about all of the changes in our life and made sure to setup our trust to meet our future goals as well. A great burden has been lifted and we couldn't be happier.

Read less

Posted by Phil | June 3, 2017

Trust update

After discussing it for a couple of years my wife and I finally decided to update our trust and other documents. On a friends recommendation we met with Brenda and her associates. From the initial consultation to the final documents, all our questions were answered and everyone was professional and courteous. Would recommend highly.

Read less

Posted by Adam | May 25, 2017

An overall great experience!

Brenda and her team handled my will and trust with efficiency and made it very simple for me (since I knew little about the process}. I have since referred Brenda to multiple friends and family members and have posted about my happiness with the process on Facebook, I am big on referrals, and like to get referrals as well as give them.... so I would totally recommend Geiger Law Offices anytime.

Read less

Posted by Pat | May 24, 2017

Always there when you need them!

I have been with Geiger Law for over 12 years. They are "very" professional and know there stuff! Recently when my Mom's Cancer returned I needed a Power of Attorney fast. They took care of it right away. I know I can always count on there professional help! Thank you, Thank you!

Posted by Allen | February 14, 2017

Estate Planning

Brenda and here team were great - Responsive, concise and very knowledgeable about how to set up protection for a family trust with a growing asset base. I'd highly recommend her to anyone looking to get started or review their estate planning needs.

Posted by Manuel | September 21, 2016

Our Estate Planning development and yearly update

When we had to change our estate planning attorney from A Northern California one to Southern California the transition was handled efficiently and easily.

Posted by Clement | September 17, 2016

As good as it can be!

Thorough explanations, great communication, and amazing service. Definitely will keep recommending Geiger Law to anyone looking for a great family law firm.

Posted by anonymous | September 16, 2016

Great service!

Our experience with the Geiger Law offices has been very positive. All personnel there are friendly, courteous and competent. Prices and hourly rates are high, but you get what you pay for.

Posted by anonymous | March 12, 2016

Highly Recommend

Brenda and her staff executed a family trust for us. They were very thorough, timely, professional, and did an excellent job. Thank you Brenda and everyone at Geiger Law Office.

Posted by Eric | March 8, 2016

Initial Setup For A Trust

My wife and I have been talking about establishing a trust for the last few years and this year we finally pulled the trigger. We chose Brenda's office based primarily on the Avvo reviews (we had a list of six to work from). The experience was fantastic start to finish. We came through the process not only feeling much more secure about our wealth preservation strategy for our children, but we also received a great education along the way. If you are considering retaining an attorney for this process or and other type of family law matter, please do yourself a favor and go see Brenda and team for a consultation.

Read less

Posted by Katie | January 25, 2016

Geiger Law Office restored my faith in law offices

I chose Geiger Law Office at the recommendation of a friend to prepare my living trust and I was not disappointed. The entire office was knowledgeable, professional, helpful, friendly and efficient in preparing my trust. They made the process easy and stress free, and eagerly guided me through to completion. I have and will continue to recommend this office to my friends and family for estate planning.

Read less

Posted by Vicki | January 20, 2016

Best-Ever Experience

My experience with this law firm was outstanding in every way. My expectations were exceeded. Everyone I worked with in the office was friendly and knowledgeable. I did not know working with a law firm could be so wonderful.

Posted by Tony | January 18, 2016

Establish Promissory note with Adjustment to Family Trusts

We had in place a Family trust and needed to set up a promissory note to a family member that would be included in any trust allocations upon our demise. It was handled seamlessly.

Posted by Debbie | January 16, 2016

5 STAR SERVICE

This was one of my first experiences at a law office. I was having my trust updated. The service was 5 star from start to finish. Her entire staff is friendly, knowledgeable and the very organized. Her team quickly recognized issues with my initial trust, made recommendations and updates to protect me and my assets. The process was so organized with an initial consultation and review of my goals, followed by a "signing" appointment and lastly the "funding" appointment. I highly recommend Brenda Geiger and her team! They are FABULOUS.

Read less

Posted by anonymous | January 16, 2016

Estate Planning Services

My wife and I went to Brenda Geiger to do a thorough review of our Trusts. We had individual Trusts but had not integrated plan following our marriage. Brenda and her staff laid out an easy to understand roadmap that provided both protection and ease of mind for my wife and I as well as our heirs. I highly recommend her.

Posted by Kirby | January 12, 2016

Brenda Geiger

Brenda and her staff completed a my Estate Plan and Will. I had it reviewed by the Chief attorney at Bessemer Trust who is one of the Country's leading wealth management firms. They remarked that is was one of only a few that were totally complete and accurate in their many years of estate plan review. Brenda and her team completed the plan on time and on budget. She and her staff are cordial and very professional. I highly recommend her services.

Read less

Posted by Susan Almond | January 11, 2016

Very Helpful

Brenda and her team are very helpful and accommodating. At my father's death they helped my family to deal with all the paperwork and after death financial business and it went very smoothly. Insurance companies responded much more quickly to my attorney than to the family, unfortunately. My attorney helped me understand the legal ramifications of the myriad of forms to complete.

Read less

View all reviews

View less reviews

Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.6 (Superb)

Work Experience

Owner
Geiger Law Office, P.C.
2005 - Present

Of Counsel
Frank & Burke
2005 - 2006

Of Counsel
Griswold Law Group
2005 - 2006

Senior Law Clerk
Innercool Therapies, Inc.
1999 - 2005

Patent Prosecution Paralegal
Fish & Richardson P.C.
1996 - 1999

View all work experience

Education

Oxford University, Magdalen College, England
Semester Abroad, Law School
2004

Univ of San Diego SOL
JD - Juris Doctor
2004

Univ of San Diego
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1995

Legal Cases

Estate of Dorothy Monteverde-PETITION FOR APPROVAL OF ACT OF SPECIAL ADMINISTRATOR
Successful entry to safety deposit box of decedent

Associations

National Association of Elder Law Attorneys
Member
2012 - Present

ElderCounsel
Member
2011 - Present

San Diego North County Bar Association
Member
2011 - Present

San Diego County Bar Association
Member
2009 - Present

North County Estate Planning Council
Member
2009 - Present

WealthCounsel
Member
2007 - Present

State Bar of California
Member
2004 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Awards

2008 North County Bar Association Writers Award
North County San Diego Bar Association
2009

Publications

Word Association Press
Protecting Your Children's Inheritance from Divorcing Spouse's, Unjust Lawsuits and Bankruptcy
2015

North County Lawyer Magazine
How to Protect a Beneficiary from Losing the IRA they Inherit to Creditors, Predators and Divorcing Spouses
2015

Word Association Press
Estate Planning Secrets of the Affluent
2015

Word Association Publishers
Secrets of Great Estate Planning
2014

www.geigerlawoffice.net
Asset Protecting Your Child's Inheritance
2013

Word Association Press
Protecting You and Your Business, A California Business Planning Guide
2013

Word Association Press
How to Avoid the Catastrophic Costs and Effects of Long Term Care: a Calilfornia Elder Law Guide
2013

www.geigerlawoffice.net
What to Look For When Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney?
2012

North County Lawyer Magazine
Asset Protecting Your Child's Inheritance
2012

North County Lawyer Magazine
Estate Tax Repealed in 2010
2010

San Diego International Law Journal
Authorization to Kill Terrorist Leaders
2003

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

The Crossings in Carlsbad
Hot Topics in Estate Planning
2015

2015 Trusts & Estates Symposium
Retirement Plan Trusts
2015

KPBS Midday Edition
Estate Planning
2014

2014 Trusts & Estates Symposium
Irrevocable Gifting Trusts
2014

Planning for the Generations
Client Care Programs
2012

Safeguarding the Nest Workshop
Protecting Your Children with a Revocable Trust
2011

2011 Trusts & Estates Symposium
Beneficiary Defective Inheritors Trust, Domestic and Offshore Asset Protection Trusts and Education Trusts
2011

2011 Trusts & Estates Symposium
Advanced Estate Planning Concepts
2011

North Coast Church Mothers of Preschool Age Children Group
The Top 3 Strategies to Legally Protect Your Children
2009

2009 Trusts & Estates Symposium
IRA Trusts, Family Cabin Trusts and Avoiding Mistakes in Working with Other Advisors
2009

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (20)

Given (24)

Endorse Brenda

Laura Meier

Estate planning Attorney | May 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Brenda is an exceptional attorney, and well respected in the estate planning community. She is an expert on estate planning topics. I highly recommend Brenda Geiger."

Charles Roulet

Estate planning Attorney | Jun 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Brenda is a terrific lawyer. I recommend her to my clients who are moving or for their friends and family looking for assistance with their wills, trusts, and estate planning in California."

Judd Nemiro

Unknown Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Other

"This attorney exceeds expectations. I endorse this lawyer."

Benjamin Glass

Estate planning Attorney | Oct 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known Brenda for a couple of years and watched her firm grow! She's a superstar - passionate about doing what's right for her clients. Finding the right lawyer for your family's financial future can be tough - they all look the same! Give Brenda and her team a call and for sure please visit her website for a ton of info BEFORE you visit ANY lawyer. You and your family will be thankful that you did!"

Marty Oblasser

Estate planning Attorney | Jul 08
Relationship: Other

"I am proud to endorse Brenda, because she tailors her practice to her client's goals. Brenda is not only someone I refer business to but also an excellent mentor to fellow attorneys as she is an expert in her field."

James Dicks

Estate planning Attorney | Nov 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"This attorney works very hard for the clients and keeps up with the law by attending legal seminars to assist them in this regard. I endorse this attorney."

Andrew Flusche

Estate planning Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know Brenda through some professional associations, and I have had the privilege to collaborate with her on law firm management projects. She is highly intelligent, motivated, and dedicated to her clients."

Kimberley Schaefer

Unknown Attorney | May 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Outstanding attorney. I would trust her with my own business and trust affairs without hesitation."

David Flaherty

Wills and living wills Attorney | Sep 20
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Attorney Geiger is an excellent attorney who I would endorse without hesitation."

Patrick Donovan

Trusts Attorney | Mar 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Attorney Geiger is an outstanding lawyer. Her knowledge of wills and trusts law is second to none. I would not hesitate for a monent to endorse Brenda Geiger."

Thomas Wallin

Trusts Attorney | Feb 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Ms. Geiger is a dedicated attorney. She works hard to provide her clients the best representation available and retains lifelong relationships with her clients. I would highly recommend her to anyone needing trust, estate or business planning."

Chadwick Snow

Business Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I highly endorse Brenda for any business or estate planning matters. We worked together on a couple of issues and I came away very impressed by her both as a person and the depth of her knowledge as an attorney. As an attorney myself, I would feel comfortable using her for any business, trust, or estate planning matter."

Gregory Yaghmai

Estate planning Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Brenda's speciality allows her provide the best possible representation. She helps those with significant assets and children peace of mind for the future."

James Falcone

Estate planning Attorney | Feb 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"With Ms. Geiger you can be certain that you have retained an intelligent, thorough, and well-respected lawyer to counsel you on your estate planning matters.. She has the patience and experience to guide you through this sometimes difficult process."

Charles Walker

Estate planning Attorney | Sep 29
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer's work. For three years, I have worked with Brenda on a dozen matters where she represents my Arizona clients for their California property or with a family member who has California estate issues. She is very knowledgeable, accurate and it is with the highest of confidence I refer clients to her."

Natalia Kabbe

Estate planning Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Brenda uniquely combines top-notch legal skills with something so rare among attorneys - she is warm, genuinely caring, has a great heart and the highest integrity. She empowers families who are fortunate enough to have found her - by giving them easy-to-understand education, enjoyable! experience, "extras" that they would not find anywhere else, creating environment where families feel relaxed and comfortable during the entire engagement, speaking the language that everyone can easily understand. Every law firm should strive for what Brenda created for her client family."

Jeffrey Matsen

Estate planning Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Brenda and I have worked together on several estate planning and asset protection cases and I find her to be bright, knowledgeable and perceptive. She is an excellent attorney who knows how to get the job done. She is especially good at dealing with people and I admire the way she follows through on the concerns of her clients."

George Constant

Estate planning Attorney | Aug 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I enthusiastically endorse Brenda's work. Too many estate planners are so concerned about about numbers and documents that they miss the bigger picture. Brenda's focus is on people and their values. Her approach is counselling oriented and client-centered, and the ultimate result is that she truly helps people protect their families and their assets."

Eden Brown

Estate planning Attorney | Aug 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I highly recommend Brenda, and I don't give that endorsement lightly. She's caring, compassionate and intelligent. The perfect - and elusive - mix for a top notch estate planner. Brenda is an outstanding estate planning attorney whom I have known for a number of years. She is a creative problem solver and cares deeply for her clients' well-being. She excels in collaborative, values-based estate planning, is a thought-leader in her community, and is also a lifelong learner, always aiming to learn and innovate the best practices in order to better serve her clients and their families. Her expertise in compassionate, protective planning for families with minor children is particularly notable."

Peter Lennington

Estate planning Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have had the pleasure of working with Brenda on several estate planning matters. Her work ethic, attention to detail, and compassion for her clients is commendable. I have reviewed Brenda's trust drafting, and it is excellent. Most impressive was Brenda's work in developing and hosting The 2009 Trusts & Estates Symposium at the University of San Diego. I would highly recommend her to anyone considering estate planning in Southern California."

View more endorsements