Joseph Doherty is a California-licensed attorney at Brothers Smith LLP, where he specializes in estate planning, trust administration, probate, business law, and real estate transactions. He is certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization as a Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law, a distinction that reflects experience, expertise, and emphasis in this specific area of law.

Joe’s practice is centered on helping individuals, families, trustees, personal representatives, and business owners safeguard their legacies, navigate legal issues, and structure wealth and asset transfers with care and efficiency. He prepares comprehensive estate plans, advises fiduciaries during trust and probate administrations, resolves real property title and tax matters, and assists clients in property transfer strategies with a focus on long-term planning and tax efficiency.

A key focus of Joe’s practice includes guiding clients through California’s evolving property tax landscape, including parent-child transfers under Proposition 19, helping families preserve property tax basis and plan effectively for intergenerational wealth transfer.

A lifelong resident of Contra Costa County, Joe grew up in Lafayette, earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from UC Davis, and received his J.D. from John F. Kennedy School of Law in Pleasant Hill, attending law school while working full-time.

Joe serves a diverse client base, from families with estates below the federal estate tax exemption threshold to high-net-worth individuals engaging in advanced planning techniques such as ILITs (Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts), SLATs (Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts), and entity-based succession planning (such as utilizing limited liability companies). His approach is client-focused, practical, and grounded in long-term relationships, providing trusted legal guidance at every stage of life and legacy.

Joe is known for his discretion, empathy, and professionalism in handling sensitive estate and trust matters. He brings a calm, client-centered approach to complex and often emotional situations, offering clear guidance.  With strong analytical skills, Joe approaches problem-solving proactively and strategically, crafting solutions to fit each client’s unique goals. He communicates complex legal and financial concepts in an accessible manner, working effectively with individuals from all backgrounds. Whether working independently or as part of a team, Joe is a creative thinker and collaborative professional and is trusted for both his judgment and his adaptability.

Practice Areas:

Professional Memberships:

  • Estate Planning Council Diablo Valley, Past President
  • Tri Valley Estate Planning Council
  • Contra Costa County Bar Association

Education:

  • Undergrad: University of California, Davis, 2000 (Economics)
  • Law School: John F. Kennedy School of Law, 2009