If you’ve noticed a new seal appearing in our materials, it’s the official mark of a Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law—a designation awarded by the State Bar of California.
This is not a new achievement for our firm. In fact, Janet Brewer has held this certification for over 30 years. But the State Bar recently updated its Legal Specialization Program with new educational resources and a modern digital seal—allowing certified attorneys like Janet to better communicate the value this credential offers to clients.
So, what does this certification actually mean? And why does it matter when choosing an estate planning attorney?
Fewer Than 1 in 200 Attorneys Qualify
Out of more than 266,000 licensed attorneys in California, fewer than 1,000 hold the certified specialist designation in any area of law. That’s less than 1%—and only a small fraction practice in Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law.
This credential is one of the most selective in the legal profession, and Janet has proudly maintained it throughout her career.
What It Takes to Become a Certified Specialist
The State Bar’s Legal Specialization Program was designed to help the public identify attorneys who have demonstrated deep experience and proficiency in complex legal areas.
To earn (and retain) this credential, attorneys must:
- Pass a comprehensive written exam in their specialty area
- Demonstrate significant, broad-based experience in the field
- Complete ongoing education beyond the standard requirements
- Receive positive evaluations from peers and judges
- Recertify every five years to ensure continued expertise
This isn’t a marketing label—it’s a formal verification process backed by the State Bar of California.
Think of it like the legal equivalent of board certification in medicine: a mark of expertise, proven through rigorous testing, performance, and ongoing accountability.
Why It Matters to You
Estate planning intersects with tax law, family law, property law, and probate court procedures. It’s one of the most intricate—and personal—areas of legal practice.
While many attorneys offer estate planning services, certification provides formal assurance that your attorney’s skills have been tested, reviewed, and verified by the State Bar of California.
Whether you’re creating a multi-generational trust, navigating business succession, or managing complex tax exposure, working with a certified specialist gives you peace of mind that you’re in capable, experienced hands.
When Certification Makes the Biggest Difference:
Consider a family business succession plan, where estate planning must align with corporate law, tax strategies, and sensitive family dynamics. Or the challenge of managing assets across multiple states or countries—each with its own legal requirements. These situations require more than general knowledge—they demand deep, verified expertise.
High-net-worth families often face shifting estate tax thresholds and regulatory changes. Certified specialists receive targeted continuing education and are often among the first to adapt client strategies when laws change. For example, following the sweeping federal tax changes in 2017, certified specialists were already participating in specialized seminars and coursework while many general practitioners were still digesting the basics.
The Network Effect:
Certified specialists also benefit from access to resources and connections that general practitioners may not have. These include:
- Collaboration with other specialists across legal disciplines
- Advanced continuing education focused on cutting-edge planning strategies
- Professional networks that provide real-time insights into legal trends and court rulings
This network enhances the quality and agility of our planning—keeping your estate plan not just sound, but smartly positioned for what’s next.
Here’s what that means in practice:
- Proven Proficiency: Our knowledge is tested, documented, and recognized
- Ongoing Education: We stay current with changes in estate and tax law
- Peer Recognition: Endorsed by colleagues and judges familiar with our work
- Higher Standards: We meet enhanced requirements for experience and ethics
New Seal, Same Commitment to Excellence
With the State Bar’s recent updates, certified attorneys now have access to new tools—including the official digital seal—to better communicate this trusted credential. You’ll see this seal appearing on our website, business cards, letterhead, email signatures, and marketing materials.
When you see it, you’ll know you’re working with an attorney whose expertise has been formally verified.
Looking Ahead
For our current clients, this certification reaffirms the high standard of service you’ve always received. For new clients, it provides an added layer of confidence as you choose legal counsel for one of life’s most important areas: your legacy.
As estate laws evolve, our certified specialist status ensures we continue to lead with knowledge, insight, and precision.
Ready to Work with a Certified Specialist?
If you’re looking for guidance with estate planning, trust administration, or probate matters, we’re here to help. As a certified specialist with decades of experience, Janet Brewer brings proven proficiency and specialized knowledge to every matter she handles.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help craft a customized estate plan that protects your wealth and secures your family’s future—with the confidence that comes from working with a true specialist.
