David Burchard Gaw

Dave Gaw is a highly respected estate planning attorney with decades of experience advising individuals and families on complex wealth transfer and legacy planning strategies. His firm focuses exclusively on estate planning and related legal matters, offering tailored strategies that reflect each client’s goals, values, and long-term vision. Mr. Gaw’s client-centered approach emphasizes trust, education, and strong relationships to help clients make informed and confident decisions about their estates.

Mr. Gaw began his legal career after completing his formal legal education and entering the field of estate planning and trust law. In the early 1970s, he co-founded the law firm Gaw Van Male, where he helped build a respected practice serving clients throughout Northern California. After decades of leadership and experience in private practice, Mr. Gaw founded Gaw Estate Planning in 2018 to continue his work in a more personalized boutique environment. In addition to his law practice, he has served as an instructor for the California State Bar’s Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law specialization program.

Mr. Gaw has authored four chapters of the CEB Trust Administration Practice Guide and two comprehensive CEB Action Guides used by legal professionals across California. He is widely recognized as a thought leader in trust administration and estate planning education. Mr. Gaw has been designated a Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law by the State Bar of California. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Trusts and Estate Counsel (ACTEC), reflecting his professional excellence and contributions to the field.