Marianne Ludlow and Shawna Doughman are committed to helping people develop a legal plan that reflects their beliefs and priorities, and that provides security for them, their loved ones and their businesses. We partner with families and business owners to help them achieve their goals, provide them with financial security and peace of mind, and communicate their values to generations to come.

Professional and Caring Assistance with Your Planning

We get to know your family and your business before creating a legal plan so that we can provide the right arrangement and structure for you. Families with minor children need different planning than families with older children or families with no children. Different businesses need different structures and agreements. We take the time to understand your situation so we can customize a plan for you. Our clients also benefit from the care we offer the whole family – from free estate checkups to basic planning documents for young adult children. Become part of our client family and experience how much we care.

Focus on Estate Planning and Business Law

We don’t do every type of law. We focus on Estate Planning (Wills, Trusts, etc.), Business Law and Estate Administration. Because of this, we develop expertise in these areas and stay up-to-date on changes in the law so we can give you the best estate and business planning guidance. If you do need assistance in other areas of the law, we have great relationships with other attorneys so that we can provide you with an informed recommendation.

Custom Planning

Many estate planning attorneys take a “one size fits all” approach with their clients. The problem is that this type of planning can lead to unintended results in the long run for the family. We get to know you and your needs and educate you about the estate planning and business planning options available to you, your family and your business. We then work with you to tailor the best plan for you, your family or business.

Help Implementing Your Plan

Many attorneys send you your legal documents and then send you on your way. This is what happened to Marianne's grandmother while I was in law school. As a result, her grandmother's assets didn’t get put into her trust so her dad and I spent countless hours (and late nights) ascertaining the assets she owned (it was not organized), and taking those assets through probate. We are dedicated to working together to make sure that the follow-up work is accomplished and follow-up questions answered. For example, if you set up a trust, but don’t transfer your existing assets into your trust or fail to place new assets into the trust, then the trust does not serve the purposes you need it to serve. Or if you put business documents and procedures in place, but then don’t follow those documents and procedures, your business can be harmed. We help you implement your estate or business plan and then are available to provide on-going support.

Planning for Minor Children

If you have minor children, all of our packages include KidsSecureTM planning. KidsSecure™ is a comprehensive planning process to ensure the right people are appointed to care for your children and their assets should something happen to you. It includes a procedure of communicating and educating designated guardians so the process goes smoothly and your children are not taken into state custody should something happen to you or your spouse. It also includes a process to let your children and their guardians know your advice and values should anything happen to you.

Collaboration with Your Other Advisors

We understand the importance of having a coordinated planning strategy. We strive to enhance your existing relationships by bringing your team of professional advisors together as each has a unique perspective and knowledge of your family and your business. Working in concert together, we can provide you with the best plan to protect your hard earned assets, protect your children and provide a legacy for your family.

On-Going Relationship

We keep in touch even after your legal documents are delivered. We do this through being accessible for your questions and concerns, and providing you with ongoing relevant information. Over time your assets, family and the law can change. If you plan isn’t updated, then it may not work for your family when you need it to. We keep in touch to ensure that you have a plan that continues to work for your family and business throughout the years. We also provide a plan review at least every 3 years.

Upfront Pricing

Many lawyers give you a billable hourly rate (but no cap) paving the way for costs to escalate out of control. For most of our estate and business planning services we provide upfront pricing. After learning about your unique planning needs, we provide you with a fixed price for the services you require. This arrangement allows you to make an informed decision and not be shocked later in the process. Many people hesitate to call their attorney because they will receive a bill for the phone conversation. Having a fixed price promotes communication and allows you to feel comfortable calling our office.

Confidence and Peace of Mind

Many people know it’s important to have a plan in place, yet planning can be daunting and is easy to procrastinate. We help you undertake your planning so that you can have peace of mind and confidence going forward. When your assets and values will be passed to your children, loved ones and charities in the way You decide (and with minimum taxation), then you can feel confident knowing you have a plan in place. When you have placed your business on a solid legal footing and planned for change, you can have peace of mind as well. Also, having an on-going relationship with us helps you feel confident that, as your situation and the law changes, your plan can change as well.