A boutique practice,
built around you.
At Donner Summit Law Firm, PC, we believe that working with an attorney shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Whether you’re creating an estate plan to protect your family, navigating probate after the loss of a loved one, or working through a civil dispute, we are here to guide you every step of the way with clarity, compassion, and a genuine commitment to your peace of mind.
Ian Bertschausen, Esq.
A California and Nevada attorney focusing on estate planning, probate, will and trust administration, and civil litigation. Ian earned undergraduate degree from Wagner College before attending the University of Miami School of Law, where he graduated magna cum laude. In addition to California and Nevada, Ian also holds licenses to practice law in Florida, as well as New Mexico (currently inactive).
Before founding Donner Summit Law Firm, Ian's legal career took him through several different areas of practice. He handled Social Security disability matters, advocating for claimants navigating a process that can be slow and frustrating. He litigated personal injury cases on the plaintiff side, representing individuals going up against insurers and defense counsel. He also worked in business law and estate planning, which is where he found the work that suited him best, and where he has ultimately focused his practice.
Before putting down roots in Truckee, Ian spent several years living and working across the country, following the medical career of his partner, Kari. When they finally landed in the Tahoe region, it felt like home in a way no place had before. He's been here ever since, and wouldn't have it any other way.
At Donner Summit Law Firm, Ian handles every client matter personally from start to finish. He finds the work meaningful: helping people think clearly about the future, protecting their families, and making sure their intentions hold up when it counts.
University of Miami
School of Law
Wagner College
Bachelor's Degree
California & Nevada
Admitted to practice in both states
Outside the office, Ian stays busy.
On the slopes, trails, and water, he can be found skiing (both Nordic and downhill), hiking, trail running, and paddleboarding.
He's an avid cook, a proud Green Bay Packers shareholder, and a baseball fan working his way through every Major League stadium — with the St. Louis Cardinals as his team of choice. He catches games at any level he can, including Reno Aces games just down the hill.
At home, Ian and Kari share their lives with Kiwi — a Lagotto Romagnolo (a too-fancy name for an Italian Water Dog) who keeps them on their toes.
Service. Leadership. Community.
Donner Summit Law Firm is an active member of the Truckee Chamber of Commerce, and Ian volunteers his time through Central California Legal Aid, providing pro bono legal services to those who need them. We believe that access to quality legal help should be available to everyone.
Truckee Chamber of Commerce
An active member of the Truckee business community, supporting and engaging with the local businesses, families, and organizations that make this region what it is.
Central California Legal Aid
Ian volunteers his time through Central California Legal Aid, providing pro bono legal services to those who need them, because access to quality legal help should never depend on means.
Let us talk about what's ahead.
Estate planning clients can book a free 30-minute consultation directly. For everything else, reach out and we'll guide you to the right next step.
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