Bar Admissions
- California State Bar
- U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California
- U.S. District Court, Northern District of California
- U.S. Tax Court
Education
- J.D., University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
- Masters in Law (Taxation) Golden Gate University School of Law
- B.A., University of California, Davis
Bio
Leighton A. Burrey is a highly respected California attorney known for his strategic and determined approach to trust and estate litigation. While possessing extensive experience in estate planning, business law, and tax law, Leighton’s primary focus is fiercely protecting his clients’ best interests when disputes arise, whether in the courtroom or during critical negotiations.
Military Precision & a Foundation in Client Care
Leighton’s background as a captain in the U.S. Marine Corps instilled in him the values of discipline, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication – qualities he brings to every client case. His service, where he led legal and personnel administration for an Assault Amphibian Battalion, honed his leadership skills and his understanding of complex legal and administrative processes. Notably, his involvement in the solemn duty of notifying families of fallen soldiers provided him with profound insight into the emotional complexities surrounding loss and the critical importance of well-handled estate matters. This experience fuels his commitment to providing compassionate yet assertive representation during sensitive legal battles.
“My priority is achieving the best possible outcome for my clients, especially when they are facing challenging trust or estate disputes. I strive to provide clear guidance and a strategic path forward.”
Deep Legal Expertise, Focused on Litigation Strength
Leighton’s commitment to providing exceptional legal counsel is underscored by his comprehensive education, including a J.D. from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, and an LL.M. in Taxation from Golden Gate University School of Law. This advanced tax knowledge proves invaluable in complex trust and estate litigation, where financial intricacies and tax implications often play a significant role. Further demonstrating his expertise and commitment to the field, Leighton formerly served on the executive committee of a prestigious bar association’s Trust and Estate Section. This selective role signifies recognition by his peers as a knowledgeable and dedicated leader within the trust and estate legal community.
Leighton has written or served in an editorial role on multiple legal articles on topics of interest to lawyers and others, including articles on California wills and trusts and estate planning. Among those articles:
- California Wills & Trusts Forms Vol. 1-3, Assistant Editor; Matthew Bender; 2017, 2018, 2019
edition - California Wills & Trusts; Vol. 1-3, Assistant Editor; Matthew Bender; 2017, 2018, 2019 edition
- Client’s Guide to Administering the California Trust, Assistant Editor; Matthew Bender; 2017,
2018, 2019 edition - “What’s Your Priority”; Contra Costa Lawyer Magazine, September 2017
- “Spendthrift Clauses” California Will Drafting Update Author; Chapter 27, Continuing Education of the Bar, 2016 edition
- “Transfer of Assets and Discharge of Personal Representative,” Decedent Estate Practice,
Update Author; Chapter 32, Continuing Education of the Bar; 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 edition
Legal expertise is only part of the equation. At Burrey Law Group, we’re committed to building trust, communicating clearly, and helping our clients feel supported from day one. Whether you’re navigating a complex trust dispute or creating a future-focused estate plan, we’re here to guide you with experience and care.