Dana Point Maritime Attorney & Yacht Brokerage Lawyer – Escrow, Brokerage, Trust/LLC Structuring, Charter Law, Litigation & Asset Protection

Dana Point Maritime Attorney & Yacht Brokerage Lawyer – Escrow, Brokerage, Trust + LLC Structuring, Charter Law, Litigation & Asset Protection

Maritime legal counsel for Dana Point’s yacht owners, brokers, and estate holders seeking discretion, tax-efficiency, and legal protection.

Legal Counsel That Understands the Harbor and the Client

Nestled between Laguna Beach and San Clemente, Dana Point Harbor is a haven for yacht owners, high-net-worth individuals, and families integrating luxury assets into their estate plans. Whether you are buying, chartering, or resolving a dispute, I help protect your interests — with a unique combination of legal skill, brokerage experience, and strategic estate planning.

I’m Christopher M. Brainard, Esq. — a California maritime attorney, licensed yacht broker, and estate planning expert with over 27 years of experience structuring transactions, forming LLCs, handling maritime litigation, and advising on luxury asset protection.

Dana Point Maritime Law Services

  • ✔ Yacht Sales, Purchase Agreements & Escrow Oversight
  • ✔ Charter Contracts (Bareboat, Hybrid, Commercial)
  • ✔ LLCs & Living Trust Ownership for Vessels
  • ✔ Asset Protection for High-Value Yachts & Planes
  • ✔ USCG Documentation & Title Transfers
  • ✔ Commission Disputes & Brokerage Litigation
  • ✔ Maritime Liens, Vessel Arrest Defense
  • ✔ Estate Planning Integration for Luxury Assets

Why Dana Point Clients Trust Me

  • Brokerage + Legal Dual Expertise: I understand both the business and legal sides of yacht transactions and disputes.
  • Estate Planning Insight: I help clients use trust and LLC strategies to pass vessels efficiently, avoid probate, and reduce tax exposure.
  • Litigation Experience: I’m a seasoned complex litigation attorney for maritime liens and ownership conflicts.
  • Privacy-First Structuring: I help clients shield ownership and preserve confidentiality through well-designed legal entities.

Protect What Floats and What Matters Most

Whether you're a first-time yacht buyer, a seasoned charter operator, or a family integrating your vessel into a long-term estate plan — I help you get it done right, legally and strategically.

📞 Call or Text: (310) 266–4115
🌐 Website: www.LawBrainard.com
📝 Start Online: Complete Our Maritime Intake Form


“Chris helped us transfer our yacht into a trust-held LLC and avoid unnecessary taxes. We felt protected every step of the way.”
— Yacht Owner, Dana Point


*This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. An attorney-client relationship is only formed through a signed agreement.*