Jeff Burtka

Jeff Burtka

Attorney · George Mason University Law School

Jeff Burtka joined the Nolo staff as a Legal Editor in 2023 and focuses on DUI and estate planning law.  

Legal career. Jeff is a member of the State Bar of Michigan. He began his legal career as a law clerk to the judges of the Arlington County Circuit Court in Virginia. He then served as a prosecutor for six years before working in health care law and estate planning. Immediately before joining Nolo, Jeff was a staff attorney at the Institute of Continuing Legal Education in Michigan, where he wrote and edited legal education resources for Michigan attorneys.

Education. Jeff has a bachelor’s degree in English and history from the University of Michigan and a law degree from George Mason University.

Other pursuits. Jeff also has worked as a freelance writer with a focus on articles about sports, the outdoors, and the environment. His articles, such as  How a majority Black school in Detroit shook up the world of lacrosse, have appeared in The Guardian, Outside, Crain’s Detroit Business, Civil Eats, and more. He enjoys running, coaching youth sports, and spending time outdoors.

Articles by Jeff Burtka

Online Living Trust: Creating Your Own Living Trust
Living trusts are becoming more and more common, specifically as a way to avoid having your home and other valuable assets held up in probate. Learn about the options you have to create one with little fuss.
What Tax Returns Must The Executor File?
An executor might need to file several different types of tax returns on behalf of the deceased person or the estate.
Estate Tax vs Inheritance Tax: What's the Difference?
Depending on the size of your estate, where you live, and how much you leave to loved ones, your estate and beneficiaries might end up paying inheritance or estate taxes.
Tennessee’s DUI Laws and Conviction Penalties
In Tennessee, the penalties for a DUI generally depend on the number of prior offenses and often include jail time, fines, and a license suspension.
North Carolina’s DWI Laws and Conviction Penalties
In North Carolina, the penalties for a DWI conviction depend on aggravating and mitigating factors and can include jail, fines, and license suspension.
Florida’s DUI Laws and Penalties for a Conviction
In Florida, the penalties for a first, second, and third DUI conviction can include jail time, fines, and license suspension.
What Is a Bypass Trust?
Bypass trusts are used by wealthy couples to avoid paying the federal estate tax.
Virginia’s DWI Laws and Conviction Penalties
In Virginia, the penalties for a DUI generally depend on the number of priors and often include jail time, fines, and license suspension or revocation.
Making a Self-Proving Will With a Self-Proving Affidavit
Wills with a self-proving affidavit attached are easier to prove valid in probate court.
Steps in the Probate Process: An Overview
Here's a roadmap of the common steps involved in the probate process.
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