417 Business & Elder Law

My elder law practice assists people with all phases of their life planning. With the business law and real estate law side of the firm, I help owners prepare proper documentation and make decisions necessary for the operation of their company. It is a rewarding career and I truly enjoy resolving issues for my clients. I was born and raised in Springfield, Missouri, and graduated from Glendale High School in 1989. I graduated from St. Louis University School of Law in 1996 and practiced law in St. Louis for several years before returning home to Springfield in 2004.

For my early years practicing law, real estate and business law were my primary areas of focus. Providing guidance on the formation and operation of someone’s business has always been gratifying. As my estate planning practice began to grow, it became clear that many clients needed additional information concerning planning for long-term care expenses. Their needs prompted me to add elder law to my practice areas. For estate planning, I concentrate on educating my clients about how to avoid probate and properly direct their assets to their chosen beneficiaries. With nursing home planning, I inform my clients about their options to avoid spending their life savings paying for nursing home care. In cases of disability, I explain Powers of Attorney, Special Needs Trusts, and guardianships with families. When a relative dies and probate was not avoided, I guide my clients compassionately through the process.

It is important that people understand how to protect their assets whether it is in relation to their business, potential disability, long-term care, or upon death. As an attorney, my philosophy is to inform my clients about their options so they can make educated decisions about all aspects of their life planning.