Clear answers. Thoughtful decisions.

Planning helps you leave clear instructions for the people who may need to act for you or receive your property. The right approach depends on your family, what you own, and the decisions you want to make. You do not need to choose documents before we talk.

If your plan relies on your will to transfer assets, it usually relies on probate. Probate comes from the Latin word meaning “to prove.” Your will states your intentions, but it generally must be admitted to probate before property can pass under it. Whether probate is needed depends on how your assets are owned and transferred.

Documents are only part of the work. Your attorney helps you understand the choices, applies the law to your circumstances, checks how the pieces fit, and reviews the plan with you. Technology can help us organize information and prepare for review; it does not replace your attorney’s judgment or responsibility.

A trust is a planning tool, not a promise of protection from every tax or claim. Probate, taxes, and creditor risks are separate questions. We explain which objectives a proposed arrangement addresses, its limits, and any control or flexibility you would give up.

We agree on a flat fee before you hire us. We explain what is included, when payment is due, and any separate costs. Your written agreement records the scope and the fee.

Please ask about fee and payment arrangements before deciding the service is out of reach. We discuss the options available for your circumstances and confirm any agreed arrangement in writing before engagement.

A flat fee lets you ask questions about your plan without watching the clock. Your agreement explains the planning work, ongoing guidance, one revision each year, and any separate charges. We discuss additional work before you authorize it.

No. Choose a focused planning day or several shorter meetings. Either way, you’ll have time to consider your choices, talk with family and ask questions before signing. Timing depends on your needs, complexity and readiness. Signing and funding may require additional steps and time.

That is a common sticking point. We explain each role and help you compare willing, capable people and backups. You can bring the question to our conversation rather than settle it alone beforehand.

We track the remaining asset tasks and help you understand the next step. Estate-plan guidance and one plan revision each year are included under your engagement. Tell us when life changes. Probate administration, disputes, and other representation require their own agreement unless your engagement says otherwise.

Probate is a legal process, not a prediction that your family will fight. In my litigation work, I’ve seen how grief, unclear instructions, and competing expectations can make a difficult time harder. Thoughtful planning can clarify who is responsible and how property should pass. We’ll explain which steps may help your family, and what planning cannot guarantee.

The short answer: I’m bald, and my head gets cold.

The red Angels hat is also a reminder of the team I grew up rooting for. My wife gives me a new one each Christmas; I save its debut for Opening Day. Different hats over the years. Same red.

If you spot the hat, come say hello. I’d love to meet you.