Jim Blair
Jim Blair's passion for helping families plan their futures started with a Business Law course at Diablo Valley College. That class changed everything — it led him to Lewis & Clark Law School and the California Bar in 1999. Today, as a Certified Specialist in Planned Giving (CSPG), Jim focuses his practice on comprehensive estate planning for California families.
But Jim didn't stop at studying law. He lived the challenges his clients face. As owner of Creek Monkey Tap House in Martinez, he experienced firsthand what it means to build something from the ground up — and the importance of protecting it. Most attorneys have never signed the front of a paycheck. Jim has. That real-world experience shapes how he approaches estate planning today: with empathy, practicality, and a deep understanding of what families are really trying to protect.
Now Jim has come full circle. He's back at DVC as Director of College Advancement and a Business Law professor (his students call him "one of the most real, down-to-earth, funny professors at DVC"). He serves on the boards of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce, the DVC Foundation, and Diamante Scholars. He's a founding member of the Diablo Valley Tech Initiative and sits on Marathon Petroleum's Community Advisory Panel.
Through Everwise Legal, Jim brings 25+ years of combined business and legal experience to estate planning. With his JD, CSPG credential, and Real Estate Broker license, he helps California families create comprehensive plans that protect their loved ones, preserve their legacies, and provide lasting peace of mind.
Jim understands what you're trying to protect because he's built something worth protecting himself. And he's here to help you do the same.
Education & Credentials
Juris Doctor (JD)
Lewis & Clark Law School, Portland, Oregon (1994-1998)
Specialized in environmental and natural resource law with a primary focus on water law. This foundation in strategic, long-term thinking shapes Jim's approach to estate planning today.
Certified Specialist in Planned Giving (CSPG)
American Institute for Philanthropic Studies, 2023
This specialized credential demonstrates Jim's expertise in planned giving and estate planning strategies — including charitable trusts, gift planning, and wealth transfer techniques that help families maximize their legacy while minimizing tax impact.
Bachelor's Degree
Environmental Resources (1991-1994)
Emphasis on environmental politics, policy, and water management. Developed analytical and systems-thinking skills essential for complex estate planning.
Professional Licenses & Certifications
- California State Bar #202247 - Active status since July 1999
- Certified Specialist in Planned Giving (CSPG) - American Institute for Philanthropic Studies, 2023
- Real Estate Broker - California Department of Real Estate License #01339310, 2004
- CCNA Certifications - Cisco networking credentials (showing commitment to staying current with technology)
Estate Planning
Revocable Living Trusts, Pour-Over Wills, Powers of Attorney, Advance Health Care Directives, HIPAA Authorizations, Trust Funding, Guardianship Nominations, Personal Property Memorandums
Professional Journey
Creek Monkey Tap House - Owner/Operator
Martinez, California
Jim didn't just practice law; he lived the experience of building something from the ground up. As owner of Creek Monkey Tap House, a beloved gastropub in downtown Martinez, Jim experienced every challenge that comes with creating a legacy. From negotiating contracts and managing employees to planning for the unexpected, he walked in his clients' shoes. This experience taught him that protecting what you've built requires proactive, thoughtful planning.
Diablo Valley College - Director of College Advancement
Pleasant Hill, California (Current)
Jim leads DVC's fundraising and development efforts, fostering collaborations between the Contra Costa County community and DVC students and faculty. This role keeps him deeply connected to local families and allows him to give back to the institution that sparked his legal career.
Diablo Valley College - Business Law Professor
Pleasant Hill, California (Current)
Teaching the very Business Law course that inspired him to attend law school, Jim has come full circle. His students describe him as "one of the most real, down-to-earth, funny professors at DVC." He brings real-world examples and practical insights to every class, preparing the next generation of professionals.
Everwise Legal - Founder & Attorney
Pleasant Hill, California (Current)
After years of business ownership, teaching, and community involvement, Jim founded Everwise Legal to serve California families with the kind of thoughtful, comprehensive estate planning he wished everyone had access to. His mission: help families protect their loved ones, preserve their legacies, and achieve peace of mind.
Community Leadership
Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce
Board Member (2020-Present)
Supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth in Contra Costa County through advocacy, networking, and community engagement.
Diablo Valley College Foundation
Executive Director (Current)
Leading fundraising efforts to support DVC students through scholarships, emergency assistance, and educational programs. Strengthening partnerships between the college and the community.
Diamante Scholars
Board Member (2020-Present)
Empowering first-generation college students through mentorship, scholarships, and support services. Helping students achieve their educational and career goals.
Diablo Valley Tech Initiative
Founding Member (2018-Present)
Bridging the gap between technology and education in the East Bay. Promoting digital literacy and tech career pathways for local students.
Marathon Petroleum Corporation
Community Advisory Panel (2020-Present)
Serving as a liaison between the corporation and the local community, ensuring corporate decisions consider community impact and fostering transparent communication.
Philosophy & Approach
Why Everyone Needs an Estate Plan
Many people put off estate planning because they think it's only for the wealthy, or they assume they'll "get to it someday." The truth is, if you have a family, a home, or any assets at all, you need an estate plan. Without one, the state decides who gets your assets, who raises your children, and who makes medical decisions for you.
Jim has seen what happens when families don't plan — the stress, the cost, the family conflicts. He's committed to making estate planning accessible, understandable, and straightforward so every family can be protected.
Planning Today Protects Tomorrow
The best time to plan is before you need to. Life changes — marriages, births, property purchases, health events — happen on their own timeline. Having a comprehensive estate plan in place means your family is protected no matter what happens, and you can focus on living your life with confidence.
Jim's approach is proactive: build strong foundations now that adapt to life's changes, rather than scrambling to react after the fact.
Your Partner, Not Just Your Lawyer
Jim sees himself as a partner in your family's wellbeing, not just a service provider. That means taking the time to understand your family, your values, and your goals. It means explaining everything in plain English, answering every question, and making sure you're completely comfortable with your plan. Estate planning is personal, and Jim treats it that way.