Gretchen Tomanek Shaffer, Estate Planning Attorney in San Diego, California

Gretchen concentrates on estate planning, tax, and trusts. Each area below outlines the kind of case Gretchen handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Estate Planning

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• Tax

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• Trusts

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Gretchen's primary office is at 4365 Executive Dr., Ste. 1100, San Diego, CA, 92121-2133. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new estate planning attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Gretchen usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Gretchen discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in estate planning practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Gretchen for a estate planning case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Gretchen walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Gretchen offer a free consultation?

  Gretchen charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Gretchen's office. Some estate planning attorneys offer free consults — check Gretchen's current terms during booking.

• How long do estate planning cases in California typically take?

  Simple estate planning matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Gretchen gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Gretchen take my case if I'm outside San Diego?

  Gretchen is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Gretchen will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Gretchen?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Gretchen will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Gretchen accepting new estate planning clients right now?

  Gretchen's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.