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

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

Does Michael offer a free consultation?

Michael charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office. Some estate planning attorneys offer free consults — check Michael'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. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Irvine?

Michael 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 — Michael 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 Michael?

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

Is Michael accepting new estate planning clients right now?

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

Michael Paul Varela, Estate Planning Attorney in Irvine

Quick answer

Michael Paul Varela is a partner based in Irvine, CA. The practice focuses on Estate Planning, Probate, and Tax. Michael has over 22 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Brown And Streza Llp.

Based in: Irvine, CA
Experience: over 22 years
Known for: Estate Planning · Probate · Tax

Handles Estate Planning, Probate, and Tax matters from Irvine, CA.
Over 22 years of practice as a licensed attorney.

Areas of practice

Michael's practice areas in Irvine

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

Estate Planning cases in Irvine, California

Michael takes estate planning matters in Irvine, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Probate cases in Irvine, California

Michael takes probate matters in Irvine, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Tax cases in Irvine, California

Michael takes tax matters in Irvine, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Trusts cases in Irvine, California

Michael takes trusts matters in Irvine, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Biography

Michael Paul Varela, estate planning attorney serving Irvine

Michael Paul Varela is a partner based in Irvine, CA. The practice focuses on Estate Planning, Probate, and Tax. Michael has over 22 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Brown And Streza Llp. Michael works from Irvine, California and takes on estate planning matters across the region.

Michael P. Varela is an attorney with the Orange County, California law firm of Brown & Streza, where his practice focuses on estate planning, trust and estate administration, charitable giving, and other tax matters. He works closely with families and individuals assisting with trust formation, charitable planning, life insurance planning, intra-family transactions and post-mortem trust and probate administration, as well as estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer tax.

Michael received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Southern California in 2001, his Juris Doctor from Santa Clara University School of Law in 2004, and his Master of Laws in Taxation (LL.M.), summa cum laude, in 2008 from the University of San Diego School of Law.

Gaining recognition as a speaker, Michael has presented at several California Tax Bar & California Tax Policy Conferences, the State Bar of California’s Young Tax Lawyers Conference, and the Silicon Valley Capital Club.

Michael also served on the Executive Committee of the Taxation Section of the California Lawyers Association. He is a member of the Taxation Section and the Trusts and Estates Section of the California Lawyers Association.

Recently relocating to southern California with his wife and two children, Michael enjoys hanging out with his kids, going to the beach, and playing golf.

Michael's approach to estate planning cases

Michael P. Varela is an attorney with the Orange County, California law firm of Brown & Streza, where his practice focuses on estate planning, trust and estate administration, charitable giving, and other tax matters. He works closely with families and individuals assisting with trust formation, charitable planning, life insurance planning, intra-family transactions and post-mortem trust and…

The kind of cases Michael takes

Michael reviews new inquiries case-by-case for estate planning, probate, and tax matters in Irvine and the surrounding California area.

Credentials

Credentials — where Michael studied and practices

Santa Clara University School of Law
J.D. University · 2004
University of Southern California
B.A. International · 2001

Jurisdictions

Michael's state bar admissions

California
2004 · ACTIVE

Michael studied at J.D. University in Santa Clara University School of Law and B.A. International in University of Southern California.

Law school and academic background

Michael completed J.D. University in Santa Clara University School of Law and B.A. International in University of Southern California. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Michael runs in California is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Locations

Michael Paul Varela's office in Irvine

Michael's primary office is at 40 Pacifica, 15th Floor, Irvine, CA, 92618. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Brown And Streza Llp

40 Pacifica, 15th Floor

Irvine, CA 92618

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Client feedback

Client reviews of Michael Paul Varela

Michael has not yet collected verified client reviews on LawyersListed. Reviews here are all from confirmed clients; anonymous ratings are moderated out.

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Hiring guide

How to hire Michael Paul Varela — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

Michael charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Michael will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a estate planning attorney in Irvine, California

A short list to run through before you commit: How many estate planning matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Michael

Michael 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.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every estate planning matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Michael confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Michael's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many estate planning practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Michael Paul Varela

How much does it cost to hire Michael for a estate planning case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Michael walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Michael offer a free consultation?
Michael charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office. Some estate planning attorneys offer free consults — check Michael'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. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Irvine?
Michael 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 — Michael 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 Michael?
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. Michael will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Michael accepting new estate planning clients right now?
Michael's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by California residents in the last few months, answered by estate planning attorneys like Michael Paul Varela. Each link opens the full answer thread.

How Long Does It Take To Settle An Estate In California?
My father passed away in Los Angeles, CA last month and I’m the executor of his estate. He had a small house and a few bank accounts but no debt. I’m unsure how long the probate pr
1 verified answer · Estate Planning · California
Can I Disinherit My Child In A Florida Will?
I’m a mother of three in Orlando, FL and I’m considering disinheriting my oldest child due to ongoing issues. Can I legally do that in my will? What are the potential consequences
1 verified answer · Estate Planning · Florida
What Happens To My Student Loans If I Pass Away In Illinois?
I live in Chicago, IL and recently graduated with student loans. I’m 27, healthy, but I worry about what happens to my debts if I die unexpectedly. Will my family be responsible fo
1 verified answer · Estate Planning · Illinois
Are Joint Wills Valid In New York State?
My partner and I are discussing our estate planning in New York City, NY. We want to create a joint will since we own property together and have kids from previous marriages. I’ve
1 verified answer · Estate Planning · New York
What Happens If I Don’t Name An Executor In My Will In Michigan?
I’m in Detroit, MI and I’ve been working on my will but I’m unsure if I need to name an executor. What happens if I don’t? Will the court automatically assign someone, or will my e
1 verified answer · Estate Planning · Michigan
Do I Need An Estate Lawyer If I Have A Trust In Washington?
I set up a revocable trust in Seattle, WA, and I thought that would suffice for my estate planning. However, I’m worried I might still need legal advice. Do I need to hire an estat
1 verified answer · Estate Planning · Washington

Areas served

Estate Planning attorneys serving Irvine, Los Angeles and San Francisco in California

Michael handles estate planning matters throughout California. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified estate planning attorneys in that community.

Michael Paul Varela, Estate Planning Attorney in Irvine, California

Quick answer

Michael's practice areas in Irvine