007: Trust and Business Litigation Issues with Shanda Beach

In this episode of Legacy Protected, host DeDe Soto explores what really happens when probate and trust disputes collide with high-stakes business litigation. Joined by Shanda Beach, founder of a Newport Beach business litigation boutique, the conversation pulls back the curtain on how contentious family and shareholder disputes unfold behind the scenes. Together, they break down why settlement is often harder than it looks, how strategy evolves over time, and what forces actually bring opposing parties to the table. Shanda draws on decades of experience—from large international firms to her own practice—to explain discovery, depositions, and the realities of litigating complex matters involving business valuations, fiduciary duties, and family conflict. She shares candid insight into the emotional and financial calculus that drives litigation decisions, and why there's rarely such a thing as "trial by surprise." If you're facing a probate or trust dispute with business entanglements, this episode offers practical clarity on what to expect—and how to protect your position. In this episode, you will hear: How business litigation intersects with probate and trust disputes High-conflict family and shareholder disputes involving closely held businesses When settlement makes sense and when litigation pressure is necessary Discovery explained including written discovery and depositions Time, cost, and emotional realities of prolonged litigation Why courts and attorneys see through "hiding the ball" strategies Resources from this Episode https://www.thesotolawgroup.com/contact-us-newport-beach-lawyers Phone: 949-629-4569 Address: The Soto Law Group 4041 MacArthur Boulevard, Suite #200 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.