John M. Goralka

At CunninghamLegal, John Goralka combines his experience in tax, business, and estate planning to create cohesive, forward-looking strategies that protect wealth and minimize risk. Early in his career, he served as an income tax auditor and hearing officer for the California Franchise Tax Board, where he gained a rare, behind-the-scenes view of how tax authorities think, act, and enforce. That experience shaped his mission: to help individuals, business owners, and families stay steps ahead — not scrambling to react after the fact.

For decades, Mr. Goralka has helped thousands of families and business owners protect, preserve, and pass on their wealth with confidence. Through The Goralka Law Firm, founded in 1996, he and his team built a reputation for designing practical, tax-efficient estate plans that truly worked when families needed them most. In January 2026, Mr. Goralka joined CunninghamLegal, bringing decades of experience, strong relationships, and proven strategies into their statewide practice.

Mr. Goralka earned his bachelor’s in accounting from California State University, Sacramento, followed by both his J.D. (with distinction) and his LL.M. in Taxation from McGeorge School of Law. He passed the CPA exam early in his career and remains one of the few attorneys in California dual-certified as a Specialist in both Taxation Law and Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. His recognitions include Best Lawyers in America®, an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell, and a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating—consistent honors earned through decades of client-centered results.