Spotlight

Have you ever attempted swimming the rough channel waters between the islands of Lanai and Maui in the Hawaiian Islands? Probably not, given that very few people have ever accomplished the feat. The shark and jellyfish infested waters, along with aggressive current, is cited by many swimming experts to be more treacherous than the English Channel. That never dissuaded Allan Cutrow from making his mark on history. Allan has tackled the Hawaiian Island adventure 4 times.

While most people head to Hawaii for a relaxing vacation, Allan has a different definition of vacation. It reflects his general attitude on practicing law, which can best be defined as fighting currents and defying odds. The complexities of trusts and estates law, as well as the emotional undercurrent often present, is analogous to Allan’s treks across the channel in Hawaii. He relishes the challenge and never wants to be far from the action.

Allan’s work in trusts and estates goes well beyond providing counsel to families in managing their estates to their own benefit. He often advocates the importance of leaving behind legacies with charitable gifts as part of overall planning, something he has established notoriety for over the years. Allan’s commitment to the charitable world is extensive and you don’t have to look far in his office to find countless memories of the impact he and his family have made on their community.

Experience

Legal Expertise

Allan specializes in Estate and gift planning, estate and trust administration, estate and trust litigation and dispute resolution, charitable gift planning, exempt organizations, and estate and gift tax planning for artists and collectors.

Representative Matters

Argued two cases before the Supreme Court regarding no contest clauses in California.
Participated in the sale of large, closely held businesses as part of a decedent's estate.
Represented the Philippine Government Agency on behalf of the estate of Ferdinand Marcos.
Represented the estates of numerous high-profile, high-worth celebrities.
Act as guardian ad litem by court appointment.

Honors & Awards

Chambers High Net Worth 2023 Guide: Private Wealth Law (Band 3)
Recognized by Best Lawyers in America© in the fields of:
- Trusts and Estates (1997-2025)
- Litigation - Trusts and Estates (2011-2025)
- Non-Profit/Charities Law (2013-2025)
- Tax Law (2013-2025)
"Top 5% of lawyers in Southern California," Southern California Super Lawyers (2004-2019, 2021-2024)
"Fammy," award from Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles in recognition of community service
First recipient of Magnin Award, Hillcrest Country Club for Outstanding Community Service for members under age 40
AV® Preeminent™ Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

Professional, Business and civic Affiliations

Co-Chair, MSK Wealth Management Practice Group
MSK Governing Board
Fellow, American College of Trust and Estate Counsel
Mediation Panel, Probate Department Los Angeles County Superior Court
Former Chair, Koreh LA – Jewish Federation literacy program
Former President, Jewish Community Foundation
Chair, Los Angeles United Jewish Fund Campaign (2002)
Member, Chancellor Associates/UCLA
Chair, Fundraising Committee – Spieker Aquatic Center at UCLA
Supporting member, UCLA Water Polo Fund Raising Committee and Golf Tournament Committee
Supporter, UCLA Women's Swimming Program
Former Chair, Attorneys Division, Hillcrest Country Club, United Jewish Fund Campaign
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) (license inactive)