Stuart Gober Schmidt, Elder Law Attorney in Los Gatos, California

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

• Elder Law

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• Estate Litigation

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• Estate Planning

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• Probate

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• Tax

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• Trusts

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• Wills

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Stuart's primary office is at 983 University Avenue, Suite 104C, Los Gatos, CA, 95032-7637. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Stuart for a elder law case?

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

• Does Stuart offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do elder law cases in California typically take?

  Simple elder law 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. Stuart gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Stuart take my case if I'm outside Los Gatos?

  Stuart 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 — Stuart 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 Stuart?

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

• Is Stuart accepting new elder law clients right now?

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