Every family has questions about how to protect what matters most. I’ve answered some of the most common estate planning questions I hear from clients here in Georgia: from wills and trusts to business succession and special needs planning. My goal is to make this process simple, clear, and personal, so you can make confident decisions about your future and your family’s peace of mind.
I started practicing estate planning in 1997 while working at Stewart, Melvin & Frost here in Gainesville. I was fortunate to learn from Woody Stewart, one of the top estate planning attorneys in Northeast Georgia. Over those first few years, I helped more than 125 families create plans that protected their wealth and reduced estate taxes. Those early experiences shaped how I approach estate planning today: focused on listening, education, and doing right by families.
More than 80% of my work is dedicated to estate planning: things like wills, trusts, and business succession strategies. The remaining 20% is focused on estate administration and making sure clients’ assets are properly aligned once their plans are in place.
Start by knowing exactly what you own and how you own it. The details matter more than you realize. And don’t just hire any attorney, work with one who truly focuses on estate planning. I’m part of WealthCounsel, a nationwide network of over 1,000 attorneys who share best practices and resources to build estate plans that actually hold up when families need them most.
Yes. My team and I work with many business owners who want a clear path for what happens next, whether that means transitioning ownership to family, partners, or preparing for a sale. Helping someone protect the business they’ve built from scratch is one of the most meaningful parts of my work.
I do, and it’s something that’s close to my heart because I’m part of a blended family myself. I understand the unique challenges that come with making sure everyone feels seen and protected. I take extra care to balance fairness, clarity, and the emotions that come with planning for loved ones.
Yes, I’ve helped many families create Special Needs Trusts and other strategies to ensure a loved one with disabilities is cared for properly, without losing access to important government benefits.
In most cases, my clients don’t have to worry much about estate taxes, but for those who do, I absolutely help develop strategies to reduce them. The federal estate tax limit is projected to reach about $15 million per person (or $30 million per couple) by 2026, which covers most families. Still, I work closely with financial advisors and CPAs to make sure we’re maximizing every opportunity to preserve wealth.
Every family is unique, and that can bring some tough conversations, especially when emotions or complex assets are involved. When something unusual comes up, I don’t hesitate to collaborate with my network of estate attorneys across the country to make sure my clients get the best possible plan.
I use a five-step process that centers around education and conversation. I want you to understand every part of your plan and feel confident it reflects your wishes. My goal is for you to walk away not just with documents, but with peace of mind.
Yes, I do complimentary Three-Year Reviews for every client who creates a trust with me, and I offer free changes for up to 90 days after signing. Life changes fast — your plan should change with it.
Everything I do is based on flat fees. You’ll know the full cost upfront; no hourly billing or surprises. I walk you through your options, explain the value of each plan, and you choose what best fits your goals and comfort level.
No. The only fees you’ll ever pay are those clearly listed in your engagement letter. Transparency matters to me, and I never want you to feel unsure about costs.
If you already have an estate plan, I’ll review your documents at no charge. If everything looks good, I’ll tell you that. If updates are needed, or if it’s time for a full refresh, I’ll give you straightforward recommendations and a flat-fee quote before doing any work.
Yes, all the time. I believe estate planning works best when everyone on your financial team is in sync. I frequently coordinate with accountants, financial advisors, and insurance professionals to make sure your plan works from every angle.
Yes. My team and I also handle estate administration, guiding families through the process with clarity and care. We charge a simple retainer for the initial engagement and replenish it as needed until the estate is settled.
Estate planning isn’t just paperwork, it’s about protecting people, reducing stress, and giving your loved ones confidence when they need it most. That’s why I do what I do.
Have a question or need support? Reach out—we’re here to help.