Hagar & Cotten

Hagar & Cotten is a well-established estate planning attorney firm in Vista, California, serving individuals and families across North San Diego County. The firm specializes in estate planning, trusts, wills, powers of attorney, health care directives, probate law, conservatorships, guardianships, real estate matters, homeowners’ association issues, landlord-tenant disputes, business law, and personal injury cases. They offer complimentary consultations to new clients and provide services in both English and Spanish. With a 4.60 rating and a strong volume of reviews, the firm is recognized for its dependable legal guidance and client-focused approach.

The firm was founded in 1982 by James L. Hagar and Cary L. Cotten, both of whom have deep roots in the Vista community. Jim Hagar, a graduate of U.C. Berkeley and the University of California-Hastings, has served on the Vista Unified School District Board of Trustees for twelve years and has coached youth sports for over fifty seasons. He was honored as Vista’s Person of the Year in 2013. Cary Cotten, a graduate of Wheaton College and the University of San Diego School of Law, earned Cum Laude honors and has held leadership roles in civic organizations, including serving as a judge pro tempore. Their combined experience and community involvement have helped shape the firm’s reputation for integrity and long-term commitment.

Hagar & Cotten is located at 630 Alta Vista Drive, Suite 102, in Vista, California. The office sits just a short distance from the Vista Civic Center, approximately 0.1 miles away, and is bordered by Eucalyptus Avenue and Vista Village Drive. It is also within a short walk of Civic Center Park and Wildwood Park, making it easily accessible from nearby residential and civic areas.

The firm’s strong standing is reflected in its consistent client satisfaction, long-standing presence in the community, and the personal dedication of its founding attorneys. Their expertise in estate planning and probate law, combined with their deep local roots, makes them a trusted legal resource for families throughout North San Diego County.