Law Office of Peter S. Stern

I reached out to Mr. Peter Sterling Stern for an elder law and estate planning consultation regarding my family's needs, including MAPT + gift trust. While I understand that legal services can be costly, I was disappointed by Mr. Stern’s dismissive approach during our conversation. He cut me off multiple times, stating that he “already knew” the information I was providing and didn’t need the context of my case. Additionally, he made it clear that consultations are only available for a fee of $750 for 1.5 hours, which is significantly higher than most other estate planning attorneys who offer complimentary consultations. He clearly stated that he charges for his time. My question is: what legal professional doesn't? On that token, what legal professional is brash within the first conversation? As a consumer, I expect not only knowledge but also respect and courtesy from any professional I work with. Unfortunately, Mr. Stern’s unwillingness to engage respectfully and inability to provide even a basic modicum of decency to potential clients made it clear that I will be seeking services elsewhere. My advice to families looking for a family estate attorney: Shop around. There are so many estate attorneys in the Bay Area who are willing to provide tailored consultations, even free! Do your homework, use your resources, call neighboring attorneys. You have the power to protect your family and your family's hard-earned legacy, hand-built from one generation to the next. The last thing you need is an attorney who can't respect your basic human dignity, even at the first conversation. If time is money to a lawyer, respect to YOU, as the client, is priceless. In the end, choosing an attorney isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about trust and mutual respect. Mr. Stern failed to demonstrate either, and I would not recommend his services. No consultation needed. You selected yourself out, Mr. Stern.

Good JOB

Peter was an incredible attorney and a very big help to my sister and myself. I highly recommend him!

Disappointing experience. Rude and unprofessional. Asked a series of personal questions that were completely unnecessary and irrelevant, cut me off, inquired as to whether I was "solvent" as "all kinds of people call..." and within seconds hung up. I suggest hiring an admin or charging a consultation fee (which would have been perfectly fine). Very weird interaction.

I recently ran into Peter Stern in Palo Alto, and it felt like meeting an old friend. Years ago, he was instrumental in alleviating a lot of anxiety when my father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and I became his conservator, navigating new territory. Peter was that knowledgeable and guiding hand that helped me tremendously in making decisions. He's a kind and gentle soul, and you can count on his expertise and advocacy. He really gets it that the people coming to him for help already have enough on their plate. He's one of those rare attorneys who lessens the burden. I give him my highest recommendation.

I recommend the law office of Mr Stern. My Parents needed help and Mom didn't trust anyone but with Peter it was different.He shows compassion and truly cares about helping people and My dear Mother could see this .My family had been through a lot by this time and Peter could clearly see this.I will forever be Grateful to him and Karen.Thank you...James

Great