John M. Goralka

Senior Counsel at CunninghamLegal

Attorney John Goralka understands Estate Planning, Tax Planning, and Business Law from the inside out. Early in his career, John served as an income tax auditor and hearing officer for the California Franchise Tax Board, where he gained a rare, behind-the-scenes view of how tax authorities think, act, and enforce.

That experience shaped his mission: to help individuals, business owners, and families stay steps ahead — not scrambling to react after the fact. “Most people don’t realize how much control they actually have over their financial future,” John says. “My job is to make sure they use it.”

At CunninghamLegal, John combines decades of experience in tax, business, and estate planning to create cohesive, forward-looking strategies that protect wealth and minimize risk. He brings a clear-eyed, practical approach to every plan, ensuring clients understand not just what they’re doing, but why they’re doing it.

Experience & Successes

For decades, John has helped thousands of families and business owners protect, preserve, and pass on their wealth with confidence. Through The Goralka Law Firm, founded in 1996, he and his team built a reputation for designing practical, tax-efficient estate plans that truly worked when families needed them most.

In January 2026, John joined CunninghamLegal, bringing decades of experience, strong relationships, and proven strategies into our statewide practice.

We are delighted to bring John’s deep tax and business planning expertise to CunninghamLegal’s forward-thinking approach to legacy, protection, and family wealth. John’s focus at CunnighamLegal remains on delivering peace of mind and strategic foresight—helping people stay ahead of change rather than react to it.

Education & Credentials

Attorney John Goralka earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from California State University, Sacramento, followed by both his Juris Doctor (with distinction) and his Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Taxation from McGeorge School of Law. He passed the CPA exam early in his career and remains one of the few attorneys in California dual-certified as a Specialist in both Taxation Law and Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization.

His recognitions include Best Lawyers in America®, an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell, and a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating—consistent honors earned through decades of client-centered results.

Philosophy

John’s philosophy is straightforward: planning should create peace, not panic. “Good planning isn’t about avoiding risk,” he says. “It’s about controlling outcomes on your terms.”

He believes that proactive tax and estate strategy isn’t just about minimizing numbers on a form, but about maximizing freedom, family harmony, and future opportunity. His style is direct, practical, and empowering: no jargon, no fluff, and no surprises.

Beyond the Office

Outside of work, John enjoys time with his family, the occasional soccer match, and a good challenge—whether on the field or in the courtroom. He’s also a frequent writer and speaker on advanced tax and estate topics, known for breaking down complex concepts into plain English and actionable advice.

When John founded The Goralka Law Firm in 1996, he did so while raising his children as a single parent. For three decades, he balanced building a thriving practice with the everyday realities of family life—an experience that deepened his understanding of what truly matters when planning for the future.

More recently, John married, and together with his wife they’ve embraced new adventures, from exploring California’s wine country to traveling and discovering new destinations. That perspective, shaped by real life, real responsibility, and real priorities, continues to inform the way he approaches every client’s plan.

Contact Us Today

John Goralka and our full team of attorneys can help you with advanced Business, Estate, and Tax Planning from any of our offices throughout Northern and Southern California. We offer in-person, phone, and Zoom appointments. Request an appointment online or call (866) 988-3956.