Schaffer Family Law Group

Schaffer Family Law Group brings a distinctive perspective to property tax consulting through our extensive family law and mediation background. We understand that property tax issues often arise during major life transitions - divorce, inheritance, separation, or family financial changes - and we provide specialized expertise in navigating these complex situations. Our practice has evolved to address the growing need for property tax guidance that considers family dynamics and emotional circumstances alongside technical tax matters. Our team recognizes that property tax disputes can affect families differently than individual property owners. We provide sensitive, confidential guidance that addresses both the technical aspects of assessment appeals and the family relationships involved. Whether dealing with inherited family properties, divorce-related property divisions, or jointly-owned real estate, we bring both legal expertise and interpersonal skills to achieve optimal outcomes for all family members involved.

Schaffer Family Law Group specializes in property tax matters involving family-owned properties, inheritance issues, and divorce-related assessment challenges. Our services include appeals for inherited properties where assessment increases have created financial strain on families, guidance on property tax implications during divorce proceedings, and mediation services when family members disagree on property tax strategies. We handle assessment appeals for jointly-owned properties, ensuring all parties understand the implications and benefits. Our unique expertise includes navigating Proposition 13 transfer rules for family properties, challenging supplemental assessments triggered by ownership changes, and coordinating property tax strategies with estate planning goals. We also provide family mediation services to resolve disputes about property tax appeal decisions, property ownership responsibilities, and long-term property management strategies that affect multiple family members.

Our process begins with a family-focused consultation that considers both the technical property tax issues and the family dynamics involved. We take time to understand all stakeholders' perspectives and develop strategies that work for everyone affected. For appeals, we conduct thorough assessment analysis while maintaining clear communication with all interested family members. We often facilitate family meetings to discuss options and ensure everyone understands the potential outcomes and their responsibilities. When family disagreements arise, we can provide mediation services to reach consensus on property tax strategies. Our appeals process typically takes 4-6 months, with regular family updates and coordination to ensure all parties remain informed and aligned.

We serve families throughout San Diego County with particular expertise in handling multi-jurisdictional family properties. Our services extend to families with properties in multiple locations when coordination is needed for consistent tax strategies. We work with families in all San Diego communities but have particular experience with family properties in established neighborhoods like Kensington, Normal Heights, University Heights, and other areas where families have owned properties for multiple generations.