James Burns: Experienced Estate Planning Attorney and Author in South Orange County, California

James Burns, Esq. is not merely an estate planning attorney, asset protection, and California Private Retirement Plan specialist. He is a strategic legal architect who helps families, business owners, and high-net-worth clients identify hidden risk exposures and build control systems for predictable wealth transfer outcomes. He is also a dedicated husband of over 30 years and the proud father of a young lawyer. James has built a thriving legal practice in South Orange County, California, where he focuses on comprehensive estate planning and wealth preservation.

James is a recognized authority on Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI), leveraging this powerful financial tool to help high-net-worth individuals protect their wealth, manage tax exposure, and engage in effective pre-immigration planning for clients seeking U.S. visas such as EB-5. His expertise in PPLI allows his clients to achieve sophisticated asset protection and tax efficiency, particularly in cross-border contexts.

As a sought-after speaker, James shares his deep knowledge of estate planning, retirement strategies, and business protection, frequently lecturing to both clients and peers. His insights, featured in numerous media outlets, have made him a trusted voice in his field. James is also the author of several books, including the widely acclaimed The 3 Secret Pillars of Wealth and his most recent release, PPLI - Hidden Secrets of the World's Most Powerful Tax & Financial Tool.

James's career began with honorable service in the United States Marine Corps' Force Reconnaissance, where he specialized in special operations, hostage negotiations, and anti-terrorism. This unique background served him well during his later transition into executive protection, where he played a pivotal role in managing the personal wealth and assets of the late Doris Duke and her family office. His understanding of high-level security and wealth management has continued to inform his practice as a legal advisor to wealthy clients.

James holds two law degrees: a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Taxation, and is admitted to practice by the State Bar of California, the U.S. District Court (Central District of California), the U.S. Tax Court, and the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. His adept handling of IRS representations has consistently earned praise from his clients.

Outside of his professional life, James is a bio-hacker, fitness enthusiast, former triathlete, martial artist, and yoga practitioner. He enjoys maintaining a balanced lifestyle in South Orange County, California, where he frequently spends time in the gym or pool, relishing the focus and discipline of martial arts, yoga, and bio-hacking techniques to optimize health and performance.