David W. Scopp
David W. Scopp
Attorney-at-Law
Meaningful Legacy Law PC
215 W. Franklin St., Ste. 204
Monterey, CA 93940
Serving Individuals and Families on the Monterey Peninsula
I'm an estate planning attorney with nearly two decades of legal experience, helping families on the Monterey Peninsula create clear, thoughtful plans that protect the people they love and help keep them out of court and conflict.
My experience, including both sophisticated estate planning and BigLaw litigation, has given me a deep appreciation for both the technical side of planning and the real-world consequences families face when conflict arises or planning falls short. Over time, however, I realized I have the heart of a counselor, rather than one of a fighter. I am drawn less to conflict and more to helping people create clarity, make thoughtful decisions, and prevent unnecessary conflict for the people they love.
That realization became even more personal after my family experienced firsthand how estate planning can fail when it is treated as a one-time transaction rather than an ongoing relationship. After my mother-in-law passed away, her expensive estate plan still led to court proceedings and lasting family strain. This reinforced for me that good estate planning is not just about documents, but about helping families stay connected, informed, and supported through difficult transitions.
That perspective shaped the foundation of Meaningful Legacy Law and continues to guide how I work with clients today. I begin by understanding each client's family dynamics, goals, and assets, then guide them through a thoughtful planning process designed to create clarity, alignment, and long-term peace of mind.
I also bring training in mediation, mindfulness, and counseling-based communication to my practice. This allows me to help clients not only create legal documents, but also have meaningful conversations and better prepare their loved ones for the future.
I live on the Monterey Peninsula with my wife and our two sons. Becoming a father deepened my belief that estate planning is not ultimately about documents or wealth; it is about protecting the people we love, preserving relationships, and helping families carry forward their values and sense of connection.
Outside of the office, I spend time surfing, practicing yoga, and enjoying nature. I also volunteer with the Salinas Surf Club, which introduces young people in the Salinas Valley to surfing and ocean culture.
Credentials & Recognition
- J.D., University of San Francisco School of Law, cum laude
- Editor-in-Chief, Law Review
- B.A., Middlebury College, Captain of the Swim Team
- Super Lawyers, Northern California (2026)
- Super Lawyers Rising Star (2015–2016)
- Former Board Member, Monterey County Bar Association (2017)
Publication
- Commerce Clause Challenges to the Endangered Species Act, 39 U.S.F. L. Rev. 789 (2005)
Featured In
In this conversation, I discuss how estate planning decisions impact families in the real world, including common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Recent Blog Posts
Recommendations
- Dave thank you so much for your patience, kindness, and guidance throughout this process. Creating a trust can feel overwhelming, but you took the time to explain everything clearly and thoughtfully, which made all the difference. Your professionalism, calm demeanor, and genuine care did not go u...
- Working with Dave was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. He was thoughtful in every conversation, patient in walking us through each detail, and incredibly attentive to the nuances of our situation. It never felt rushed or transactional, he took the time to make sure we understood every s...
- Dave was an absolute pleasure to work with. He explained everything clearly and in a way that was easy to understand, was flexible with scheduling, great communicator, and has a genuine, friendly, approachable demeanor. The entire process was smooth and stress-free. I would highly recommend Dave ...
- I want to start off by saying never once was there a moment where I second guessed my decision to hire David. He is a true and genuine lawyer who puts his client's best interest first and foremost. During such a difficult and traumatic time in my life my mind was put at ease knowing all of my leg...
- David, your compassion and talents are admirable. Our profession is so well served with advocates like you. Thank you very much.