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Business Details
47 Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Rancho Santa Fe
Established in 1979, our firm has built a reputation for excellence in legal representation while maintaining personalized service. We hold an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of legal practice and ethics. Our attorneys specialize in real estate, civil litigation, business planning, and estate planning, serving clients with tailored strategies that address their unique needs.

With decades of combined experience, we provide cost-effective solutions that rival large firms while maintaining the individualized attention our clients deserve. Our practice extends across California, with a particular focus on San Diego County, where we actively contribute to the legal community and stay at the forefront of emerging legal developments.
Services
Appellate Business Planning Estate Planning Litigation Real Estate
Details
  • Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
  • We have over 40 years of experience in California legal practice.
  • Our firm maintains an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell for excellence.
  • We provide personalized service with cost-effective legal solutions.
  • Our attorneys include a Super Lawyer-recognized litigator.
  • We combine deep local knowledge with cutting-edge legal expertise.
Associations and certifications
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
Services
Appellate
Our appellate practice combines decades of experience in federal and state appellate courts, ensuring clients' interests are protected through complex legal proceedings. We handle direct appeals and extraordinary writs, leveraging our expertise to avoid trial court pitfalls. With numerous published cases influencing California law, we provide strategic representation from inception through oral argument.
Business Planning
We guide businesses through entity selection, contract drafting, and mergers while minimizing tax liabilities. Our attorneys advise on S-Corps, LLCs, and nonprofit formations, addressing manufacturing, distribution, and licensing needs. With advanced tax degrees, we create tailored strategies for business growth and succession planning.
Estate Planning
Our estate planning focuses on wills, trusts, and advance directives to protect family assets and minimize disputes. We handle probate administration for estates of all sizes, including a $22 million case, while prioritizing tax efficiency. Two attorneys with tax expertise ensure comprehensive solutions for fiduciaries and beneficiaries.
Litigation
We represent clients in business, real estate, and trust litigation with a track record of 100+ trials. Our approach emphasizes strategic decision-making before and during litigation to achieve favorable outcomes. Notable cases include multi-million dollar settlements and defense verdicts in complex commercial disputes.
Real Estate
Our real estate practice covers transactions, leases, and disputes in Rancho Santa Fe and beyond. We assist with purchase agreements, title insurance, and construction contracts while integrating tax planning. With 30+ years of local expertise, we handle residential and commercial matters for developers and property owners.
People
Philip Burkhardt
Attorney
Recognized as a Super Lawyer, Philip Burkhardt specializes in litigation with over 100 trial experiences, including complex business and real estate cases. His expertise spans jury trials and appellate advocacy, delivering strategic solutions for clients.
Carl Larson
Attorney
Carl Larson focuses on business and estate planning, advising clients on entity formation and tax-efficient strategies. With advanced tax degrees, he manages high-value probate cases and provides comprehensive planning for business owners.
Valerie Larson
Attorney
Valerie Larson contributes to the firm's practice areas with expertise in real estate and business transactions. She supports clients in navigating legal complexities while maintaining the firm's commitment to personalized service.
Questions
What areas of law does Burkhardt & Larson specialize in?
We specialize in appellate law, business planning, estate planning, litigation, and real estate law, serving clients in Rancho Santa Fe and San Diego County.
How long has Burkhardt & Larson been in practice?
Our attorneys have served the community since 1979, combining decades of experience with personalized legal representation.
What makes Burkhardt & Larson different from other law firms?
We offer AV-rated legal excellence, Super Lawyer recognition, and cost-effective solutions while maintaining personalized service and deep local knowledge.
Do you handle complex litigation cases?
Yes, we have successfully litigated high-stakes cases including multi-million dollar disputes and appellate matters with published decisions.
Can you assist with business formation and growth strategies?
Our business planning practice guides clients through entity selection, contract drafting, and tax-efficient strategies for growth and succession.
What estate planning services are available?
We provide wills, trusts, advance directives, and probate administration, focusing on asset protection and minimizing family disputes.