Jessica J. Poyner has dedicated more than 26 years to helping families plan for the future and navigate the often personal and emotional aspects of trust and estate matters. As a Certified Specialist in Trust and Estate Law by the State Bar of California — a distinction held by only about 0.5% of California attorneys — Jessica brings both exceptional expertise and genuine care to every client she serves. This certification represents a high level of achievement, requiring a rigorous written exam, extensive hands-on experience, and ongoing advanced education. Jessica has also been recognized as a Super Lawyer for her professionalism and excellence in practice.

Jessica grew up in Monterey, California, and graduated with distinction from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law. After earning her law degree, she moved to Los Gatos to join her father, Roger Poyner, who founded the firm in 1969.

Jessica’s practice focuses on family wealth transfers, and she especially enjoys working with clients across multiple generations — from setting up an estate plan to ensuring that assets are ultimately distributed according to a family’s wishes. She finds great meaning in guiding families through these important transitions with clarity, compassion, and respect. She continues to carry forward her family’s legacy of service and integrity. She lives in Los Gatos, California, where she remains deeply connected to the community her family and firm have served for decades.

Kerel Alexander started at the firm in 1999, back when it was still the Law Offices of Roger W. Poyner. In his 25+ years at the office he has worked his way up from data entry clerk, to receptionist, to his current position Legal Assistant and front office manager. Lots of things have changed in all those years, but the one constant is his enjoyment of baking.

CaMicha Alexander is a San Jose native who rejoined our staff in 2014. She graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Multicultural Communications which she leans on to serve clients with a compassionate and attentive approach. Before working at Poyner Law Firm, CaMicha spent over 20 years dancing and teaching in the entertainment industry at both collegiate and professional levels. In her free time, she enjoys watching basketball, cooking, relaxing at the beach, and spending time with her dog, Coco.

Elvina Allen is a San Jose native who joined our staff in 2021. As an Administrative Assistant, she assists in both estate planning as well as trust administration after there has been a death. When she is not busy at work, Elvina enjoys spending her time out of the office with her husband and adult children.

Jed Donelan, our newest employee, started at Poyner Law Firm in 2024 after graduating from UCSC in 2022 with degrees in Legal Studies and Politics. Jed handles all aspects of the administration of trusts after there has been a death. Outside of the office, Jed finds balance in the waves and on the field, enjoying bodysurfing in Santa Cruz and playing softball with a local league.