Bespoke estate plans for discerning clients.

Claire C. Kelly, Esq.

Claire developed a passion for estate planning law in 2011 and enjoys the creativity involved in designing bespoke estate plans to meet the needs of the most discerning client.  Estate planning involves more than legal and tax considerations - it’s about protecting your loved ones in the event you’re no longer able to take care of them yourself.  Claire’s understanding of her clients and their loved ones enables her to craft an estate plan reflecting their unique values and needs. 

Claire has been fortunate to leverage her estate tax and estate planning knowledge in service of the community.  Her volunteer experience includes estate planning for first responders through Wills for Heroes and tax preparation through the Capital Area Asset Builders.  When not collaborating with clients to design their perfect estate plan, Claire enjoys woodworking, traveling, and spending time with her husband and three children.

Services

Estate Planning

These documents provide instructions for the disposition of your assets after death and are powerful tools in planning for the future of your loved ones.  Wills and trusts each provide instructions as to the disposition of your assets after your passing and can be essential to ensuring care of loved ones after you pass.  It is important in crafting these documents that it accurately reflects your wishes and protects your loved ones. Whether you have a simple estate or more complex assets, I can guide you through to ensure your loved ones are always cared for and protected.  Book an Estate Strategy Session to learn which option is right for you.


Incapacity Planning

Whether you prefer a will or a trust, your package will include comprehensive incapacity planning. Depending on your needs, this may include devices such as a durable power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney, guardianship appointment, and advanced health care directive (“living will”).

Guardianship

Ensuring your loved ones are cared for includes establishing guardianship for minor children, or other loved ones with special needs.  If you have minor children and already have a will, it likely contains guardianship provisions.  Few realize that such provisions cannot take effect until after death.  So what happens to your children if you’re in a coma?  I include guardianship documents with all packages to ensure your children have named guardians in the event of your incapacity or death.  

Planning for your children’s welfare does not end with naming guardians.  The legacy you leave your children should be protected from those who would take advantage of them.  I take pride in working with my clients to craft a unique plan for passing on your legacy, one which reflects both your values and the unique challenges your loved ones may face.  

Do you have a loved one with  special needs, such as a development delay, dementia, addiction, or a mental health struggle?  If so, I will work with you to develop a custom Special Needs Trust to ensure their continued care and protection. I design such Special Needs Trusts in a way that preserves your loved one’s eligibility for needed government benefits, while still allowing your legacy to be used for the benefit of your loved one.  

Book an Appointment

Schedule an estate planning session today to take your first step in protecting your family’s future.