Braden Drake

I’m passionate about helping entrepreneurially minded and self-motivated individuals plan for success.  My goal is to provide personalized solutions for individuals and small business owners who have specific goals, so that they may focus their time and energy on their true passions.

I was born and raised in Indiana. I went to Indiana University where I graduated with one major in Slavic Language and Literature with a focus on Russian language and another in political science. I also studied German, a bit of Ukrainian, and completed over twenty credits through the Kelley School of Business.

After deciding to pursue law, I explored my options, applied to around twenty-two schools and ultimately decided I would be happiest in San Diego (who isn’t?). During my time at California Western School of Law, I found a passion for health law, tax, business, and estate planning. During my time as a student, I gained great experience from some terrific attorneys at two local law firms: Higgs Fletcher & Mack; and Casey Gerry.  I then worked for a couple of solo practice attorneys who partly inspired me to start my own business.  

While studying, I joined the school’s Law Review and competed for the negotiation competition team where a classmate and myself placed first and second overall at a state and national competition.  I was president of Health Law Society and an active member of the school's Pride Law organization. After also placing top ten nationally with another colleague in the ABA National Law Student Tax Challenge and winning the academic excellence award for federal income tax, I was encouraged to pursue an LLM in tax.

After graduating from California Western with an honors certification in health law, I took and passed the July 2016 bar exam. Then, I began the University of San Diego Law’s LLM program in taxation.  Currently, I serve as a volunteer attorney for Legal Aid Society's Low Income Tax Payer Clinic where we help solve IRS related tax problems for low-income individuals.

Aside from being a tax law and small business enthusiast, I enjoy training for and competing in endurance athletic events. I have been an active member of Tri Club San Diego. During school, I finished one marathon, three IRONMAN triathlon races, and four IRONMAN 70.3 races.  As a native Hoosier, I love to play basketball.  I also regularly play beach volleyball and tennis.  Aside from my athletic interests, I always enjoy the opportunity to cook for my husband and friends and have begun to dabble in the collection of cookware and cookbooks.  When time permits, I take my three dogs to the beach.