Our process is intentional, not formulaic.

Step 1: Complimentary Consult — 15 minutes

  • I like to connect by phone with prospective clients to better understand their needs and whether estate planning with me is the right fit. On this call, I’ll ask a few questions, answer yours, and talk through what you can expect if you choose to work with me.

Step 2: Online Planning Workbook — 2-3 weeks

  • If you choose to move forward, I will send you an online Planning Workbook with detailed instructions. The Workbook covers the topics we will discuss in our meeting, so that you will have a chance to think through the decisions you’ll be asked to make ahead of time. We will discuss how long you think it will take you to complete the Workbook, and we will set our Planning Meeting date accordingly. Your Workbook will be due one week before our scheduled Planning Meeting.

Step 3: Planning Meeting— 1-2 hours

  • The Planning Meeting is a working meeting, and we will both come prepared. In this meeting, we will discuss your family dynamics, values and intentions, and I will talk you through the basics of probate and estate planning. After learning about your unique situation, I will offer my recommendation as to what type of plan will best serve your needs and goals. Then, we will dive into designing your unique plan.

  • At the end of this meeting, you will sign a retainer agreement and we will set a date for your Signing Meeting.

Step 4: Plan Preparation — 3-4 weeks

    • As I prepare your customized estate plan, we will likely have some back and forth regarding details. I’ll be available by phone and email—free of charge—to discuss any questions you may have.

Step 5: Plan Review and Signing Meeting — 1 hour

    • At this meeting, we will review your plan and make sure you understand how it works. We’ll also address any concerns or questions you may have. When you are comfortable with the content of your plan, you will sign the documents with proper witnessing and notarization. If you created a trust, we will go over trust funding instructions at this time.

    • Your plan is now in place and active!

Step 6: Celebrate! Or breathe a sigh of relief. Or both.

Step 7: Final Estate Plan Binder Pickup or Delivery — 2-3 weeks

    • In between signing and binder pickup, we will both be busy. We will scan your documents and put them in a binder for you, along with a digital copy on USB. If you have created a trust and funded it with real estate, we will also take care of the paperwork to make that happen. In the meantime, you will be working on your trust funding tasks.

    • Binder pick-up normally takes less than ten minutes, but if you have any lingering questions or concerns, we will have a chance to address them in person. If you choose to do a Legacy Interview, we will schedule a longer meeting to record it at this time.