Klaus Gottlieb
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Klaus Gottlieb, Estate Planning Attorney
California | (805) 703-2282 | WealthCareLawyer.com
Offices in San Luis Obispo and Cayucos
Legal Accomplishments:
Klaus Gottlieb's legal journey is marked by noteworthy achievements. After nurturing a long-held dream of studying law, he turned it into reality by graduating from Northwestern California University School of Law in Sacramento in April 2021. His dedication and aptitude were evident when he passed the July 2021 California Bar Exam on his first attempt, a feat in a state with a 53% pass rate. His legal expertise is in Trust and Estates, where he uniquely combines deep legal knowledge, counseling skills honed as a physician, financial acumen as an MBA, and a knack for creative problem-solving. He teaches Wills and Trusts at Monterey College of Law, sharing his expertise and practical experience in estate planning with aspiring JD candidates. He is a member of the California Bar, the California Lawyers Association, and the San Luis Obispo County Bar Association.
Prior Career Highlights:
Before law, Dr. Gottlieb had a multifaceted career. As a physician, he practiced in both private and academic settings, reaching the rank of Full Professor at George Washington University. His medical expertise led him to testify frequently as a medical expert witness. In the pharmaceutical industry, he held executive positions, reflecting his leadership and analytical skills. He served 16 years in the United States Naval Reserve, including deployment in the Global War on Terrorism, achieving the rank of Commander, Medical Corps.
Educational Background:
Dr. Gottlieb's educational journey spans continents and disciplines. After medical school at the University of Bonn, Germany, he pursued an MBA at Indiana University, graduating with highest honors (Beta Gamma Sigma). He also passed the level I Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Exam and completed a Master of Science in Biotechnology at Johns Hopkins.
- Estate Planning
- Health Care Directives, Trusts, Wills
- Google Meet
- Zoom
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Free Consultation
Free 30-minute initial consultation. Flat fee for complete estate plans. - Credit Cards Accepted
- California
- State Bar of California
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- English: Spoken, Written
- German: Spoken, Written
- Rising Star - Southern California 2024 and 2025
- Super Lawyers
- A Super Lawyer is an exceptional achievement and title given to lawyers across the country who have achieved high standards within their respective fields.
- State Bar of California # 339060
- Member
- Current
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- San Luis Obispo County Bar Association
- Current
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- California Lawyers Association
- Section of Trusts & Estates
- Current
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- Various Articles in the National Law Review
- National Law Review
- Q. Am I included in my uncle's will?
- A: To find out if you’re included in your late uncle’s will in California:
1. Contact the executor. If you don’t know who the executor is, ask family members. Executors are legally required to notify all named beneficiaries. If you’re included in the will, you should receive a formal notice. Ask yourself: would the executor know how to reach you if you happen to be a beneficiary? If not, they might not be able to notify you directly — so it’s important that you take the initiative to contact them.
2. Search probate court records in the county where your uncle lived. Wills become public once they’re filed with the court. Many California counties offer online probate search tools. ... Read More
- Q. Is an even split of sale proceeds correct when breaking up with co-owner?
- A: In order to provide you with accurate guidance regarding the division of sale proceeds, one would need a few key details about the property and your arrangement with your co-owner:
1. Ownership Structure
• How is the property titled?
(For example: Joint tenancy, tenants in common, or something else?)
• Does the deed specify any ownership percentages?
2. Purchase Contributions
• When you purchased the home with your boyfriend, did both of you contribute to the down payment?
• Was the mortgage taken out in both of your names, or just one?
3. Source of Funds
• Was your share of the proceeds from your mother’s trust used as the down payment for the home you purchased ... Read More
- Q. What is the typical timeframe for receiving funds from a trust in California?
- A: In California, trust distributions typically occur within 12 to 18 months after the trust becomes irrevocable, often upon the settlor’s death. In straightforward cases, distributions can happen in as little as 4 to 5 months.
A key factor influencing this timeline is the 120-day period outlined in California Probate Code §16061.7. This statute mandates that trustees notify beneficiaries and heirs within 60 days of the trust becoming irrevocable. Following this notification, beneficiaries have 120 days to contest the trust. While not legally required to wait, trustees often delay distributions until this period expires to mitigate the risk of legal challenges. 
If the trustee fails ... Read More
