D. Elisabeth Silva is a distinguished estate planning attorney based in Vista, San Diego County. With over 30 years of legal experience, including 25 years as a Deputy District Attorney for San Diego County, Elisabeth brings unparalleled expertise to her estate planning practice. She is highly regarded for her work in helping North County families create comprehensive estate plans and navigate probate and trust administration with confidence.
Elisabeth’s practice focuses on crafting tailored solutions for her clients, including revocable living trusts, special needs trusts, wills, durable powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Her dedication to providing personalized service and simplifying complex legal processes has earned her a strong reputation across North County, San Diego, including Vista, Carlsbad, Oceanside, San Marcos, Escondido, and surrounding areas.
About Elisabeth
Elisabeth’s legal career began with her service as a Deputy District Attorney, where she gained extensive courtroom experience handling serious and complex cases, from criminal trials to appellate work. This background sharpened her ability to approach legal issues strategically and with a meticulous eye for detail. In 2015, Elisabeth transitioned to private practice and has since focused on estate planning, combining her legal acumen with her passion for helping families secure their futures.
As an estate planning attorney, Elisabeth ensures that her clients’ assets are protected and their wishes clearly articulated. She prides herself on her compassionate approach, offering guidance through every step of the planning process to provide peace of mind to individuals and families alike.
Elisabeth is deeply rooted in the North County community and actively participates in local organizations, including the North County Bar Association, where she served as President in 2020. Her leadership and dedication have been recognized with awards such as the WealthCounsel Award for Collaboration and the Friend of Farming Award from the San Diego County Farm Bureau.
Outside of her practice, Elisabeth resides in Oceanside with her husband and enjoys rescuing dogs, traveling, and exploring the vibrant community she calls home.
Education & Certifications
- Juris Doctor – University of San Diego School of Law
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science – University of California, San Diego
- Licensed by the California State Bar, SBN 140811
- WealthCounsel Member
Awards & Honors
- WealthCounsel Award for Collaboration
- Friend of Farming Award, San Diego County Farm Bureau
Professional Memberships & Community Involvement
- North County Bar Association (President, 2020)
- San Diego County Bar Association
- WealthCounsel
- California Women for Agriculture
- San Diego Botanic Garden
Moving Ahead
Elisabeth looks forward to continuing her work in estate planning and probate, providing families with the tools they need to secure their legacies and protect their loved ones. With her experience, compassion, and dedication to the community, she remains a trusted advocate for families across North County, San Diego.