Service Area

Estate Planning & Probate Attorney in Mission Viejo, CA

Who We Are

Protecting the Legacies of South Orange County’s Premier Master-Planned Community

Mission Viejo is widely recognized as one of the largest and most successful master-planned communities in the United States. For residents living in the scenic hilltops of Casta del Sol, the waterfront estates of Lake Mission Viejo, or the family-oriented neighborhoods of Pacific Hills, your estate plan should reflect the high standard of living you have built.

At the Law Offices of W. Steven Chou, we bring over 25 years of experience to the families of Mission Viejo. Attorney Steven Chou offers a bilingual, sophisticated approach to protecting your property and ensuring that your transition of wealth is handled with the privacy and dignity it deserves.

Young female secretary in formal clothes taking notes in notebook and taking to serious Asian male manager while working in law firm together

Navigating the Orange County Probate Court System

While Mission Viejo is a peaceful suburban retreat, legal matters such as formal probate and trust administration are handled by the county’s centralized court system. Having an attorney who is intimately familiar with local procedures is essential to avoiding unnecessary delays.

Probate Court Location
Most probate, conservatorship, and trust litigation matters for Mission Viejo residents are conducted at the Costa Mesa Justice Complex (3390 Harbor Blvd).
Local Expertise
From filing "Letters of Administration" to addressing complex "Probate Examiner Notes," we handle the technical details that keep a case moving. Our goal is to protect you from the 12 to 18-month timelines often associated with unfocused probate representation in Southern California.
Proactive Protection
By utilizing Revocable Living Trusts, we aim to keep our Mission Viejo clients out of the Santa Ana and Costa Mesa courtrooms entirely, preserving your family’s privacy and financial resources.
A diverse group of business professionals collaborating in a meeting with laptops and documents.
brown concrete pillars indoors

Specialized Planning for Mission Viejo Neighborhoods

a building next to the water

Mission Viejo’s diverse residential landscape requires a tailored approach to asset protection and estate succession:

Lakefront Living (Lake Mission Viejo & Finisterra on the Lake)
For those owning prime real estate near the water, we focus on Trust Funding and ensuring that unique lake rights and community assets are properly transitioned to the next generation.
Active Adult Communities (Casta del Sol & Palmia)
We specialize in incapacity planning and Advance Health Care Directives for residents in Mission Viejo’s premier 55+ communities, ensuring your medical and financial wishes are protected without the need for a court-ordered conservatorship.
Modern Family Estates (Stoneridge & Canyon Crest)
In high-value, gated communities, Proposition 19 tax planning is critical. We help you structure your estate to minimize property tax reassessments, allowing your children to inherit the family home with a more manageable tax basis.

A Bilingual Partner for Mission Viejo’s Growing Community

Mission Viejo is home to a sophisticated, global population. Attorney W. Steven Chou provides comprehensive services in both English and Chinese, a vital asset for multi-generational families in areas like Galivan and Capistrano Highlands. We bridge the gap between cultural heritage and California’s strict probate codes, ensuring every member of your family is informed and secure.

Team of professionals engaged in a collaborative business meeting in a modern office setting.
Safeguard your South County home

Secure Your Mission Viejo Legacy

The Law Offices of W. Steven Chou is committed to transparent fee structures and direct attorney access. Whether you are shopping at The Shops at Mission Viejo or enjoying a day at Oso Creek Trail, your mind should be at ease knowing your legacy is in expert hands.

Is your estate plan updated for the 2026 California legal thresholds?

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be construed as legal advice for any individual or for any situation or case. The information provided is neither intended to create an attorney-client privilege, nor does viewing this website create an attorney-client privilege.

© 2026 Law Offices of W. Steven Chou All rights reserved.