I enjoy working with people, particularly on matters that are important to them. Additionally, I believe that we as Americans pay too much in taxes and if I can help a client avoid paying a tax (remember tax avoidance is lawful, but tax evasion isn't) I have really done a service for my client.

I am thrilled when clients come to me with some level of education of the law and/or the process. Most often the clients have a basic understanding, but if a new client has not had any familiarity with the estate planning process I send them a memorandum written by me concerning basic estate planning documents and concepts. This provides a basis for the client and makes our initial consultation more productive. After the initial consultation, it is my responsibility, however, to make sure that the client fully understands and that the plan or process is suitable to the individual client.

I will review simple wills prepared by clients. In some instances, client-prepared documents only require minor modifications to strengthen them. In other instances, I find it is more cost-effective to prepare new documents rather than engage in costly, time-consuming revisions. I will occasionally review documents drafted by other attorneys. Under either circumstance, I will question the client to determine if the documents are adequate to accomplish the client's goals.

Some of my business clients and some of my trust administration clients have the time, interest, and ability to handle certain legal tasks and I am delighted to assist those clients in these matters. Given the complexity of estate planning and many probate matters, I never counsel those clients to represent themselves. What was the old saying about "only a fool...?"