t/ 858.454.0142
e/ rbonilla@bonillalawpc.com

Rafael focuses his practice on trust disputes, probate litigation, conservatorships, and estate planning. Beginning his career in complex civil litigation matters, Rafael’s strong litigation experience brings the necessary advocacy skills to resolve disputes. Rafael concentrates his practice mostly on trust and estate controversies and meeting his clients’ estate planning needs.

With respect to estate plans, Rafael focuses on assisting individuals and families with estate and business succession planning and understanding the unique needs of his clients. He also advises clients on how to avoid common pitfalls that lead to trust disputes between family members.

Rafael previously served as an extern with the U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey, for the Hon. Joseph Rodriguez and served as a judicial law clerk for the Superior Court of New Jersey for the Hon. Mitchel E. Ostrer.

Rafael is fluent in Spanish and has extensive experience handling cross-border issues for high-net worth clients from Mexico and other Latin American countries.

Rafael is licensed to practice law by the State Bar of California.

Education

• J. D., Rutgers Law School
• B. A., University of California, Los Angeles, Specialization in Accounting

Membership and Affiliations

• California State Bar, Admitted
• San Diego County Bar Association, Member of Sections on Estate Planning, Trust, Probate Law
• American Inn of Court, Hon. J. Clifford Wallace Chapter, Member
• American Business Trial Lawyers, Member of the Leadership Development Committee (2017 – 2019)
• San Diego La Raza Lawyers, Member
• La Jolla Bar Association, Member
• Lawyers Club of San Diego, Member