Les Norman Palinka, Probate Attorney in San Diego, California

Les concentrates on probate, trusts, and wills. Each area below outlines the kind of case Les handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Probate

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• Trusts

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• Wills

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Les's primary office is at 7840 Mission Center Ct., Ste. 104, San Diego, CA, 92108-1320. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Les for a probate case?

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

• Does Les offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do probate cases in California typically take?

  Simple probate 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. Les gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

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

  Les 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 — Les 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 Les?

  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. Les will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Les accepting new probate clients right now?

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