From simple wills and basic trusts, to sophisticated tax-saving trusts and charitable remainder trusts, I provide reliable assistance to clients in estate planning and estate administration. My work integrates a broad understanding of estate and gift tax factors, with an awareness that tax issues are only one element in establishing an estate plan that best meets the family and life goals of each client.

I can assist you with your Estate Planning, Probate, and Conservatorship matters.

About my logo, people ask, "why the tree?" The tree signifies the procession of life, and the beauty inherent in each stage of our lives. The roots are our parents, grandparents, and more distant ancestors. The tree itself represents our life, with each leaf representing one of our days. The acorns symbolize our children.

I have practiced law in Santa Cruz County since 1988. Beginning in 1992, I focused my practice exclusively in the areas of Estate Planning and Administration. I specialize in Wills, Trusts, Tax-Reduction Estate Planning, Conservatorships, Probate and other aspects of Estate Planning and Administration.

My philosophy of practicing law is to empower the client. I do not promote the mystique of the attorney; rather I promote understanding of the law. One of my goals for clients is that when they leave my office, they truly understand the estate plan I have put in place for them.

I believe in supporting our community. My local affiliations include the Santa Cruz County Estate Planning Council; Cabrillo College Planned Giving Advisory Council (member of Council charged with promoting Cabrillo's presence in the community for purposes of planned giving); Santa Cruz Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (working with SPCA to develop a formal planned giving program); L.E.A.P. (active volunteer in mentoring program to encourage leadership qualities in high school students); Leads (professional women's networking organization, past Director of Santa Cruz chapter); City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Commissioner (by City Council appointment). Prior to the birth of my son, I was a member of the Sierra Club Executive Committee, which is a nine-member body that makes policy and action decisions for our 3600-member environmental Regional Group. It involved a high level of public contact embracing environmental concerns. I was also co-chair of the Sierra Club's Conservation Committee, an action-oriented group that addresses environmental issues.

I graduated from City University of New York Law School in 1987, and passed the New York State bar examination immediately. I then sat for the California bar examination, which I also passed immediately. I am a member of the Estate Planning Section of the California State Bar. I have been a licensed attorney since 1988. I was born and raised on the East Coast, and have an undergraduate degree from Cornell University.

Personal interests include family, animals, team sports, making pottery, and trail running.

Deborah A. Malkin
Attorney at Law
2425 Porter Street, Suite 15
Soquel, CA 95073

Please call for a complimentary initial consultation.