Estate Planning with Heart
Creating an estate plan can feel overwhelming. You know it's important, but the process itself (the legal jargon, the difficult conversations, the decisions that feel impossibly weighty) can make it easy to put off.
I understand. And I'm here to guide you through it.
As an estate planning attorney with over 16 years of experience, I approach this work not just as a legal task, but as an opportunity to help you create real peace of mind for yourself and the people you love.
My clients don't just walk away with documents; they walk away with clarity, confidence, and relief.
How I Work Differently
You'll know exactly what your estate plan will cost from the beginning. No surprise bills, no hourly meters running while you gather your thoughts. This gives you the space to have unhurried, meaningful conversations with me about what truly matters.
Thoughtful, customized plans. Your estate plan should reflect your values, your family, and your unique situation. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all documents. Together, we'll create a plan that fits your life and honors your wishes.
Compassionate Guidance. This isn't just about having your documents in place. It's about protecting the people you care about, preventing conflict, and ensuring your legacy is handled with care. I bring emotional intelligence and heart to every conversation, because I know this work touches tender places.
Licensed in California and Colorado. I serve Colorado clients remotely and in-person. California estate planning clients are now served through my partnership with Epstein, Holtzapple and Christo LLP in Novato — same attorney, same approach, with the full support of an established Marin County firm. Visit www.ehc.law to learn more.
What You'll Receive
When we work together, you'll leave with:
- A comprehensive estate plan tailored to your needs, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and health care directives
- Clarity and confidence about where your assets will go and who will care for your loved ones
- Protection from probate, saving your family time, money, and stress during an already difficult time
- Peace of mind knowing your wishes are documented and legally sound
- A family meeting or legacy letter to help your loved ones understand your plan and feel prepared
- Ongoing support, including a free review every three years and 30 minutes per year of complimentary guidance for any questions that arise
The Real Cost of Not Planning
In California and Colorado, if you die without a proper estate plan, your family will likely need to go through probate, a court process that can take 8-12 months and cost tens of thousands of dollars.
For example, the probate fees alone on a $1 million estate can exceed $50,000. To find out what your fees would be, use this probate calculator: https://probatecalculator.org/#calculator
But the cost isn't just financial. Without a clear plan, your loved ones may face:
- Confusion about your wishes
- Family conflict or litigation
- Delayed inheritance during a time of acute grief
- The burden of making difficult decisions without your guidance
Thoughtful planning prevents all of this. It's one of the greatest gifts you can give your family.
The Process
This process typically takes between 1 and 3 months to complete.
1. Initial Consultation.
We'll meet to discuss your situation, your goals, and any concerns you have. I'll answer your questions and help you understand what type of plan makes sense for you. By the end of our consultation, I will be able to give you a flat fee quote and you can decide if you would like to move forward.
2. Designing your Plan.
Together, we'll work through the key decisions: who you trust, what matters most to you, and how you want your legacy to unfold. I'll guide you with care and clarity every step of the way.
3. Drafting and Review.
'll prepare your documents and walk you through every detail so you understand exactly what you're signing.
4. Signing and Completion.
Once everything is finalized, you'll sign your documents and leave with complete peace of mind.
5. Family conference.
If it feels right, we can hold a family meeting to discuss your plan and answer questions, or I can help you write a letter to your loved ones explaining your wishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
"I don't have that much money. Do I really need an estate plan?"
Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy. If you have loved ones you care about, property or assets you want to protect, or minor children who would need guardians, you need a plan. Even modest estates can benefit enormously from the clarity and protection a good plan provides.
"Can't I just do this online with a template?"
Online templates can miss critical details and may not be valid in your state. More importantly, they don't account for your unique family dynamics, your values, or potential conflicts. A personalized plan created with an experienced attorney ensures your wishes are legally sound and truly honored.
"What if my situation changes?"
Life changes, and your estate plan can too. I offer a free review every three years, and you'll have 30 minutes per year at no charge to ask questions or address small updates. For larger changes, we can update your plan as needed.
"I'm not ready to have difficult conversations with my family."
That's okay. We can move at your pace. Many of my clients find that going through this process actually makes those conversations easier, because they've gained clarity about what they want. And if a family meeting doesn't feel right, a legacy letter can be a beautiful alternative.
Ready to Get Started?
The first step is a complimentary 20-minute Zoom consultation where we'll:
- Discuss your situation and what you're looking for
- Answer any questions you have
- I'll provide clear recommendations and pricing
Colorado clients, I'd love to hear from you — schedule below. California clients, please visit www.ehc.law or contact me directly and I'll make sure you're taken care of.