Trace Brooks

Trace Brooks is the Founder and Managing Attorney of Brightside Estate and Elder Law, where he focuses on helping individuals and families safeguard assets, preserve wealth, and prepare for the future. Drawing on years of experience in estate and tax planning, he provides tailored legal solutions to address the unique financial and personal goals of his clients. His approach blends technical expertise with a commitment to ensuring peace of mind for families navigating estate and elder law issues.

Brooks earned his Tax LL.M. from the University of Florida Levin College of Law, consistently ranked among the nation’s top tax programs. He received his J.D. from Georgia State University College of Law with the highest pro bono distinction, where he worked in the Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic representing clients before the IRS. He also gained experience at Yale Law School, the U.S. Department of the Interior, and Chattahoochee Riverkeeper. In addition, Brooks holds both M.A. and B.A. degrees in Anthropology from Georgia State University, where he participated in archaeological projects in Peru, Turkey, and the southeastern United States.

In addition to his practice, Brooks teaches Wills, Trusts, and Estates as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Georgia State University College of Law. His scholarship has been featured in respected publications, including the ACTEC Law Journal, and he has co-authored articles on estate planning, privacy, and cultural heritage protection. His ability to connect academic insight with practical planning strategies strengthens his role as both a teacher and practitioner.

Trace Brooks is active in the professional community as a member of STEP, the Atlanta Bar Association’s Estate Planning and Elder Law Sections, and other legal organizations. He also serves as a board member of the Coldharbour Institute and was part of the 2021 class of Generation Green, the Georgia Conservancy’s junior board. Through leadership, scholarship, and client advocacy, Brooks is recognized as a trusted advisor in estate and elder law.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder and Managing Attorney, Brightside Estate and Elder Law
• Member, Atlanta Bar Association, Estate Planning and Elder Law Sections
• Member, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
• Member, STEP (The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners)

Licensed State

• Georgia

Education

• University of Florida Levin College of Law
  Master of Laws (LLM)
• Georgia State University College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Georgia State University
  Master’s Degree
• Georgia State University
  Bachelor’s Degree

Awards & Badges