R. DeDe Soto

Thank you for visiting my website, and I look forward to meeting you. In case you are wondering about the "R" it actually stands for "Romelia," which was my grandmother's name. While some find it hard to believe, I am actually Cuban/American. My dad immigrated from Cuba, and my mom is from the mid west and a bit of German/Irish. So, DeDe, which most people know me by is actually my nickname! So now a bit about my background.

I established the Soto Law Group so I could dedicate myself to the needs of growing families and business owners. I have a broad background of legal experience. From early on where I started practicing in family law and business litigation, and later when I developed an extensive real estate expertise. This expertise has crossed over to include all areas of estate planning, trust administration, probate and contested conservatorships.

Over ten years ago, I started my estate planning practice only on a referral basis, for family and friends. Since launching The Soto Law Group, I have incorporated my business knowledge and real estate expertise with my passion for coaching and teaching to make a difference in the lives of those I touch and bring invaluable services to my clients.

I had always believed that traditional estate planning, which implies, and often focuses only on, financial wealth and taxation was too limited and short-sighted. I believe it's not only about passing on financial wealth, but also intellectual, spiritual and human wealth. With the establishment of my own firm, I can provide a framework for a more holistic approach to family wealth planning. "We can actually pass on the clients' stories, insights and wisdom to their children, grandchildren and other loved ones so that they don't get lost when the clients pass away." Through the Child Protection Plan, clients can rest assure, knowing that if something unexpected or unthinkable happens to mom and dad, the kids won't have to spend time in Child Protective Services/foster care until their permanent guardians can arrive on the scene. Additionally, I can protect the children's inheritance from later creditors and predators.

On a personal note, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, volunteering at my church and playing golf. I am dedicated to assisting and protecting families at all ages and stages in life.

I have an undergraduate degree from California State University, Fullerton, with a major in Psychology and my Juris Doctor from Western State University School of Law. I have done continuing education at Chapman Law School and U.C. Irvine.