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

Group Inheritance: How Does a Class Gift in a Will Work?
An inheritance left to a group of people—like “my children”—is called a “class gift.” Dividing class gifts can be confusing if one class member dies.
Should I Use a Payable on Death (POD) Designation to Avoid Probate?
Payable on death accounts are an inexpensive and simple way to transfer funds after death, but they have drawbacks.
What Are an Executor's Responsibilities to Manage Estate Property?
If you’re appointed executor, how do you keep estate property safe and secure? If there’s a home, for instance, what do you do with it?
Transferring Real Estate Held in a Trust
How do you use a deed to transfer real estate held by a trust? What are the tax and mortgage implications?