"Let's plan for bright futures."
Fenelli Law Firm
about our firm
Personalized Legal Support for Families and Businesses
At Fenelli Law Firm, we know life isn’t one-size-fits-all—and neither are your legal needs. That’s why we focus on you, offering custom solutions designed to protect what matters most. Based in Mission Viejo, we’re proud to serve our community with care, integrity, and results. Whether planning for the future, growing your business, or facing unexpected challenges, we’ll stand by your side with clear guidance and trusted support, every step of the way.
Tailored Legal Services
Practical guidance across life’s milestones.
Your legal journey is personal, and we’re here to help you navigate it with confidence. From protecting your family’s future to managing the complexities of running a business, our services are designed with you in mind.
Estate Planning
Plan for the future with tailored strategies that bring peace of mind to you and your loved ones.
Probate & Trusts
Simplify the process of administering trusts or navigating probate with clear, compassionate guidance.
Financial Planning
Protect your wealth and secure your financial goals with customized planning for your future.
Business Planning
Build and sustain your business with expert support for formation, contracts, and long-term growth.
I was first introduced to the Fenelli Law Firm in 1994 by my financial adviser and it was to get a Will as I was on my own at that time. Mr. Fenelli looked after me and I was very impressed with the finished product. As I was reading it over, he thought about everything that I would ever have to do.
I moved out of California and returned recently. I received a phone call from the firm and they suggested I should update my Will as it had been a long time. I was very fortunate to work with his daughter this time, Karianne Fenelli Welch who was like her father, thinking about all the content of the Will. As I walked to Kari’s office, Margie, his wife came out of her office and gave me a big hug as she recognized me from the first visit. The second visit Rick saw me sitting in the waiting room and came out and I received a big hug as well.
I don’t know any other firm that knows and pays attention to a customer like the Fenelli’s and I highly recommend them to anyone, they are REAL people that help real people.
LENORE P.
About ten years ago, I first met the Fenelli family as a result of attending a financial seminar and realizing I needed to update my Trust. Since then, I’ve had to experience the death of my husband and all that such a sad event entails. I’m so glad I did the necessary estate planning work beforehand, as the process which involved children from other marriages as well as insurance issues turned into a pretty complicated scenario. But the Fenellis helped me through. We met and spoke many times and ironed out the details that ultimately gave me the peace of mind and financial clarity that enabled me to make the necessary decisions. Now that medical issues take up so much of my time, I can do what I need to, secure in the knowledge that all my affairs are in order in the way that makes the most sense for me and for my family.
ROSALIE G.
I remember when I first suggested to my husband Russ to make an appointment at the Fenelli Law Offices – he resisted, something I think is a common reaction for relatively young people (he was 48 years old at the time) – but I insisted. Being a blended family – me with my son, he with his – I sensed that way down the road when we were both ‘gone’ it would be much easier for the boys to have things all laid out… what I didn’t realize at that moment was that in the space of a year and a half, that time would come for our family. Shortly after celebrating his 50th birthday, Russ was killed unexpectedly in a motorcycle accident – he left one Sunday morning, told me he loved me, kissed me good-bye… and that was it. The next time I saw my husband, Russ was lying in the ICU where he spent the final three weeks of our life together. Having Rick and the entire Fenelli family to support me during that period of my life – before, during, and after the death of my husband – was so significant, so meaningful, and so… compassionate; not simply from a business perspective but from a humanity perspective. I cannot accurately describe what it meant to myself and my loved ones to have the Fenelli family’s continuing care, guidance, and support.
SHIRLEY D.
Your Questions, Answered
We’re here to simplify complexity
Legal matters can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to. We’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you get started and feel more confident. If you don’t see what you’re looking for here, just give us a call—we’re always happy to help.
What areas of law do you specialize in?
We focus on estate planning, trusts and probate, financial planning, and business law, among other areas. Our team has the experience and insight to guide you through life’s challenges, big and small, with practical advice and solutions that meet your unique needs.
How do I schedule a consultation?
It’s easy! Call us or use the contact form on our website to let us know what works for you. Whether in person, by phone, or via video, we’ll sit down to understand your needs, talk through your options, and answer any questions you might have—all with no pressure.
What should I bring to my first consultation?
Bring anything you think might help us understand your situation—contracts, correspondence, financial documents, or existing legal paperwork. Don’t worry if you’re not sure what’s relevant; we’ll guide you through the process and make sure nothing important gets overlooked.
Do you handle small business legal issues?
Absolutely. Whether you’re starting a business or managing an established one, we provide legal advice for contracts, compliance, succession planning, and more. We know small businesses are the backbone of our community, and we’re here to help you thrive.
How does your estate planning process work?
We begin by listening. Our first step is understanding what matters most to you, whether it’s protecting your assets, providing for loved ones, or minimizing taxes. Then, we create a personalized plan that fits your life and goals, explaining each step along the way.
Are your services personalized to my needs?
Yes. Every client’s situation is unique, and we take pride in offering personalized solutions that fit your life, not a template. From our first meeting to the final outcome, you’ll feel heard, understood, and supported by a team that genuinely cares.
Where is your office located?
We’re based in Mission Viejo, CA, and love being part of this vibrant community. You’ll find our address and contact details on our website. Can’t make it in person? No problem—we offer video and phone consultations to make things easy for you.