John S. Rueppel

John S. Rueppel is a highly accomplished attorney and a partner at JKZ LLP in San Francisco, California. He is a certified specialist in Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law by the California State Bar. With extensive experience in trust and estate litigation, trust administration, and probate matters, he is a trusted advocate for his clients across the San Francisco Bay Area and throughout California.

Mr. Rueppel earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Cornell University in 1993 and later obtained his Master of Education from Loyola College of Baltimore in 2000. He began his legal education at the University of San Francisco School of Law and completed his Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, at the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings), in 2009.

In his legal career, Mr. Rueppel has represented trustees, beneficiaries, executors, and administrators in a wide variety of complex matters. His expertise includes handling trust contests, removal petitions, contested accountings, and Probate Code 850 claims. He has also represented individuals in cases involving financial elder abuse, fraud, and undue influence. His practical approach and deep understanding of trust and estate law have made him a strong advocate for his clients, helping them resolve disputes effectively and achieve favorable outcomes.

Before joining JKZ LLP, Mr. Rueppel was a founding partner at O’Neil & Rueppel, LLP, a boutique trust and estates law firm in San Francisco. Throughout his career, he has contributed significantly to the legal profession and his community. He has been a member of various professional organizations, including the San Francisco Bar Association, the California Lawyers for the Arts, and the American Bar Association.

Mr. Rueppel is also active in advancing diversity in the legal field through his work with the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association. Additionally, he has provided pro bono services to organizations such as the AIDS Legal Referral Panel, reflecting his commitment to serving the community. His dedication, skill, and professionalism have earned him recognition as a Northern California Super Lawyer.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, JKZ LLP
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, San Francisco Bar Association
• Member, California Lawyers for the Arts
• Executive Committee, San Francisco Lawyers Club Inn Of Court
• President, Lawyers Club of San Francisco Inn of Court.

Licensed State

• California

Education

• University of California College of the Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Loyola College of Baltimore
  Master of Education (M.Ed.)
• Cornell University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges