State Years

California - CA 28 years

Utah - UT 27 years
Licensed for 28 years

State CA

Acquired 1994

Status
Active No misconduct found
Licensed for 27 years

State UT

Acquired 1995

Status
Resigned No misconduct found

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

John Bernard Palley

Probate Attorney at Sacramento, CA

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Thank Goodness for him!

John Palley Knows What to Do!

I knew nothing about probate law. When my brother died I owed it to him to be his Administrator and I wanted to do my best for the heirs to the estate. I called John Palley Probate Attorney. He and his assistant Danielle Swain guided me through the process. Any time I had a concern or a question, he was always available. He recommended a great probate realtor and the house sold in a week. He told me what I needed to do to set up an estate account. Have my brothers final taxes done. All the way through to the final petition being approved. Probate law is a complex step by step process. It requires an up to date competent probate lawyer. I would have been lost without John Palley and his team, they did a great job! Perhaps best of all, working with John I was able to fulfill my administrator duties working online, saving me from a dozen 800 mile round trips. Keep up the great work John!

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Probate

97%

Extremely experienced with conducting probates throughout California.

29 years, 1,000 cases
Estate planning

1%

Conduct all facets of estate planning including simple wills and trusts along with advanced planning for large estates.

29 years, 1,000 cases
Trusts

1%

Conduct all facets of estate planning including simple wills and trusts along with advanced planning for large estates.

29 years, 1,000 cases
Wills and living wills

1%

Conduct all facets of estate planning including simple wills and trusts along with advanced planning for large estates.

29 years, 1,000 cases

I am a certified specialist in estate planning, trust and probate law as determined by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. My practice is 100% devoted to the California probate process only. I also am a past Sacramento Bee estate planning and trust "expert." I also have been rated "AV" by Martindale Hubbell which is their highest rating. I am rated 10.0 by and which are their highest ratings. I am a "Super Lawyer" which they indicate is the top 5% of attorneys. Contact me with all your probate and trust law issues. I am efficient, knowledgeable and easy to work with. I look forward to helping you out.

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

15 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | May 10, 2022

Thank Goodness for him!

I contacted John as a fish-out-of-water in desperate need of a line, and he acted swiftly and insightfully. He took the time to answer all of my questions in a way that was easy for a "beginner" to understand. And when I had follow up questions, he did not hesitate to see my issue through. I found John very knowledgeable and generous and I highly recommend him!

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Posted by Gregory | June 24, 2021

John Palley Knows What to Do!

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Posted by Carol | February 3, 2016

You rock John Palley and Crew!

I was told early on by an elderly kind attorney, that the probate process in California is no joke. As a matter of fact he indicated he no longer had the energy to do a full Probate & suggested that I find someone that specializes in that area. So since the fees in California are statutory I set out to find the very best. And the best I found! I can't say enough about John Palley and his paralegal Danielle; actually everyone in that office who I had an interaction with. Words that come to mind........ caring, efficient, responsive, knowledgeable, dynamic. He is totally on your team and steers you in the best direction for your situation. I had some other issues (probate related) come up during the process and John advised me on those as well. It was like being treated as a family member...in some instances better than a family member. I could go on and on and on. So I will just end this review by stating the obvious....... YOU ROCK JOHN PALLEY!!! You really do! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

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Posted by Teddy | May 28, 2015

Got my questions answered fast

We had a surprise on who was and was not on the title to the house after my step-father died. John gave us clear, actionable advice within an hour after I sent an email to him. I felt like I knew what legal grounds we stood on and direction about what to do next. Thank you John!

Posted by Traci | October 7, 2014

SO INCREDIBLY HELPFUL!!!!!

My family had hired an attorney that had completely misinformed us about the position we were in and what we were entitled to regarding our probate/estate case. Wanting a second opinion, I emailed John and he was quick to respond and dead on accurate with his information to me. He definitely knows this area of law. If he was closer to Orange County I would've fired our attorney and hired him.

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Posted by Eileen | May 7, 2014

A pleasure to work with.

John is my trust attorney, and has been for 10 years. He is intelligent, competent, and never fails to respond quickly to any questions/concerns I might have. Highly recommended!

Response from John Palley May 8, 2014

Thank you so much for the nice review. It means a lot to me. I hope your medical situation improves quickly! Of course, I am here if any questions arise for you. -John

Posted by Leslie | July 27, 2013

A #1 Attorney!!!

He responded within 10 minutes via email. He asked many questions and was thorough, kind, caring and though he couldn't help me, he was quick to let me know how to widen my search! I would recommend Mr. Palley to anyone!

Posted by Andrew | July 19, 2012

Professional, Personable, and Approachable

John assuaged a lot of my worries and concerns regarding my estate planning. For me, his greatest strength was that he listened to all my questions and answered in them in language that I could understand. No hidden agendas and no misleading -- just straight-forward and helpful advice and execution.

Posted by anonymous | May 24, 2012

Heartfelt thanks!

I am an attorney who specializes in medical malpractice defense in Maryland. I was named the Executor of an Estate in Sacramento County, California and rapidly learned that my Estates and Trusts experience in Maryland was not up to the task of California Probate. I searched for an experienced Estates firm to assist me through the process and found John Palley and his firm. I cannot say with enough enthusiasm how strongly I would recommend John and his firm. He was incredibly accessible, knowledgeable and supportive though the whole process. Additionally, I found his Associate and his staff to be equally accessible, helpful and professional. Thanks to John and his team for a very successful outcome! Elizabeth[removed by Avvo staff]

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Posted by Ed | April 23, 2012

A really hard worker

Joh, did a complicated will and trust for me and was always timely, courteous and professional.

Posted by Amelia | August 31, 2010

TRULY, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, Intelligent, Professional and INTERESTED

Mr. Palley was so helpful, kind, courteous and very interested in my issues. Mr. Palley took the time to investigate my issues and respond to me before making any conclusions. He made sure he knew what he was talking about and not just a "for instance" kind of lawyer as the one I had spoken to before Mr. Palley. I am so glad I found Mr. Palley and would highly recommend recommend him for anyone that wants an awesome lawyer that is truly interested in protecting their best interests.

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Posted by Scott | August 30, 2010

A solid choice for probate and estate planning matters

It was a pleasure working alongside Mr. Palley on a complex and hostile probate matter. Since then I have referred clients to Mr. Palley and remain comfortable doing so based upon his knowledge, experience and people skills.

Posted by Gary | July 18, 2010

Great Attorney! John Palley

John Palley provides "Top Shelf" service!!! He assisted my family with a Living trust and Will. The process was easy and turn key. John took the time to understand our situation and put together a program that put our family in the best position to be protected. His knowledge and responsiveness is second to none. I highly recommend working with John. He is a man of integrity and professionalism.

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Posted by Jennifer | July 11, 2010

Excellent Attorney

John Palley helped me through the probate process when my husband passed away. His knowledge of probate law and estate planning including testamentary and special needs trusts is unmatched. Mr. Palley guided me through one of the most difficulty processes a person can go through. I would recommend him to everyone I know.

Posted by Jeff | July 11, 2010

Like Family

I've been working with Mr. Palley so long time now it is like he is a member of the famuly. He is a fantastic lawyer and able to simplify very complex issues to help me make the right decisions for all my probate issues..

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Attorney
Meissner, Joseph & Palley, Inc.
1999 - Present

Sole Practitioner
John B. Palley, Attorney at Law
1995 - 1999

Marketing - Attorney
Manulife Financial
1994 - 1995

Education

California State University, Sonoma State University
JD - Juris Doctor
1994

University of the Pacific
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1991

Legal Cases

Nearly 1,000 Probate cases
Successful!

Estate Planning
Over 1,000 happy clients!

Associations

Roseville Chamber of Commerce
Member
2013 - Present

Placer County Bar Association
Member
2012 - Present

Sacramento Planned Giving Forum
Member
2009 - Present

Rotary Club of Roseville
Member
2008 - Present

Sacramento Estate Planning Council
Member
1995 - Present

State Bar of California
Member
1994 - Present

Active 20-30 Club #1
Member
1995 - 2003

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Estate & Trust Law Firm of the Year in California - 2019
Global Law Experts Awards
2019

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Martindale Hubbell
2018

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers of Northern California
2018

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Martindale Hubbell
2017

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers of Northern California
2017

Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
Bar Registry
2017

Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
Bar Registry
2016

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers of Northern California
2016

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Martindale Hubbell
2016

Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
Bar Registry
2015

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Marintdale Hubbell
2015

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers of Northern California
2015

Best Lawyer in Roseville
Roseville Press Tribune
2015

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers of Northern California
2014

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Martindale Hubbell
2014

Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
Bar Registry
2014

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Marintdale Hubbell
2013

Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
Bar Registry
2013

Re-Certified Specialist in estate planning, trust & probate law
State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
2013

Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
Bar Registry
2012

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Marintdale Hubbell
2012

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Martindale-Hubbell
2011

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Martindale Hubbell
2010

AV Rated - Peer Review Rating - Preeminent
Martindale-Hubbell
2009

Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate law
California Bar Board of Legal Specialization
2008

View all awards

Publications

Available at Amazon
How to Live and Die with California Probate
2016

Sacramento Bee
Estate Planning and Probate Expert
2009

The American Society of CLU Business Compensation
Multi-Employer Welfare Benefit Trusts
1995

Speaking Engagements

PCAR Lunch and Learn
Probate and Living Trusts
2017

UC Davis Extension Tax Class
Estate Planning for Taxation Students
2016

Probate process from start to finish
Probate process from start to finish
2016

UC Davis Extension Tax Class
Estate Planning for Taxation Students
2015

UC Davis Extension Tax Class
Estate Planning for Taxation Students
2014

UC Davis Extension Tax Class
Estate Planning for Taxation Students
2013

Value Investing for MBA students
Estate Planning
2012

Fun Realtor Education Day
Estate Planning
2012

Radisson Hotel Sacramento
Probate Process from Start to Finish
2011

Sheraton Sacramento
Estate Administration - Why Every Step Matters
2010

UC Davis Extension Wealth Management - Multi-week class
Estate Planning for High Net Worth Families
2010

UC Davis Extension Tax Class
Estate Planning for Taxation Students
2010

Sacramento Planned Giving Forum
Probate and estate planning law
2008

Probate Process - From Start to Finish
Probate Law for Lawyers and Paralegals
2008

UC Davis - 10 Week Course
Estate Planning for Financial Planners
2006

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (22)

Given (39)

Endorse John

William Bowen

Estate planning Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known John for four years, and he is one of the brightest and most honest attorneys I know. Personally, he has assisted my family and friends with their estate planning needs."

Paul Molinaro

Probate Attorney | Sep 14
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Ralls

Probate Attorney | Jan 14
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. John is an experienced probate attorney and I recommend him. I enjoyed working with him at a high level attorney conference a couple of years ago. I was very impressed by his knowledge and energy."

Seth Hanson

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

"I have known John for more than 5 years. John is an outstanding professional, is extremely knowledgeable, and is a passionate advocate for his clients. I have referred several clients to him and do not hesitate to refer anyone with estate planning or probate questions. I am confident anyone who seeks John's services will receive attentive, competent, and valuable legal services from him."

Meriam Hansen

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

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jason Murai

Estate planning Attorney | Jul 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Amy Ruggles

Unknown Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"John is a partner at our firm. He is an expert in Probate law and Estate Planning. He is the go to person for novel and/or complicated Probate problems where there is no clear law on point. His door is always open to help resolve the trickiest of client issues."

Edward Goldkuhl

Probate Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"John is a kind, capable and compelling advocate. He understands the law, knows how the system works and cares about his clients. John is the kind of lawyer I would want my wife to hire if I died; and I am an estate planning and probate lawyer. If more lawyers were like John, lawyer jokes would not exist."

Samuel Swenson

Estate planning Attorney | Mar 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I recently met John. He struck me as an attorney with a keen intellect and the ability to think complex issues through. He is a pleasure to speak with and great listener. I would be confident sending my clients to John for estate planning advice."

Howard Roitman

Estate planning Attorney | Dec 27
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Orcutt

Probate Attorney | Oct 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"John Palley is an attorney you can trust to do the best for you. I frequently discuss matters of probate and even general litigation with Mr. Palley. In addition to being extremely knowledgeable about his practice areas, he also has a lot of experience and common sense to bring to the table. This combination makes him an excellent partner for anyone, whether it is a colleague or a client."

Christine Kingston

Probate Attorney | Sep 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I recently met John at a conference for attorneys and immediately knew how much he cares to be of service to his clients and community. It takes time to answer questions and write blog articles and rare is the lawyer that understands the importance of serving our community by sharing knowledge. I highly recommend John B. Palley to serve your probate needs in California."

Eric Jeppson

Estate planning Attorney | Oct 20
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I continually work together with John on several shared clients and without hesitation I recommend him to others. I trust his collaborative approach and observe that he adds value and meaning to his clients."

Peter Bauman

Estate planning Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Palley is a talented attorney and I recommend him. I had the pleasure of working with John at a recent high level attorney conference."

Patricia Forman

Probate Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I was recently introduced to John at a Rainmaker event in Las Vegas, NV. John is extremely knowledgeable in the areas of estate planning and probate law, and I would not hesitate to refer clients to his practice."

Michael Wald

Probate Attorney | Aug 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John and I had the pleasure of getting to know each other at a conference of over 30 attorneys from around the country. It was clear that he stood out among this elite group as being more proactive and one of the best attorneys in the room. I would not hesitate to send anyone with an estate planning or probate matter in California to him. I feel certain they would receive fair, fast, and extremely competent legal services from him. I endorse this lawyer."

Steven Oshins

Estate planning Attorney | Aug 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known John since attending law school with him many years ago. He has an excellent reputation as an estate planning and probate attorney and does the right things for his clients. He is passionate about what he does and is always looking to improve his knowledge so he can better serve his clients."

Daniel Roberts

Estate planning Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Friend

"John's passion for estate and probate law is like that for his family - committed, caring and completely dedicated to being the best that he can be."

Robert Hunt

Estate planning Attorney | Feb 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have worked with John on a number of joint clients, and used him as a resource in many other matters. John's knowledge of estate planning and probate is superb and I rely heavily on him for these matters."

Jamie Newbold

Trusts Attorney | Aug 26
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Without hesitation, I endorse John Palley's work. As a lawyer myself, I am well versed in the competancy required to meet the expectations in the legal world, as well as those I personally command. John's expertise and outstanding level of excellence in estate planning, wills, trusts, and probate, dictate his superiority in the field. I can also confidently endorse John's work as client as well."

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Estate planning

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Litigation

Elder law

Criminal defense

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Oil and gas

Chapter 7 bankruptcy

Estate planning

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General practice

Estate planning

Bankruptcy and debt

Probate

Personal injury

Business

Avvo Contributions

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John Bernard Palley

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