I am crystal clear about what I give you in return for your money. I need you crystal clear too. In order to offer flat-fee prices for high-quality work, I created a precise process. I run a remote law firm. This means that we will use some basic technology. If the answer is yes to any of the following, please consider working with an traditional law firm:

1. Are you sure that there are gremlins in your printer?
2. Do you curse loudly when you forget a password?
3. Does your blood pressure skyrocket when you need to scan a document?

I can recall times when my answer to all three questions was yes. But now I have a password manager and a tech-savvy husband, so the gremlins don’t antagonize me anymore. I don’t like to be frustrated and I know you don’t either. Please read the description of my process below carefully so you can confidently choose to work with me.

I offer three types of packages (both for an individual and for a couple). These are flat-fees. The description of each package list every service and estate planning document that comes with the package. Some people will need add-on services and documents in addition to the package.

You may need extra services if:

– You are creating a trust and own a business
– You are creating a trust and own more than one piece of real estate
– One of your beneficiaries has special needs

If you know which package you want, you can purchase it without an initial consultation. After purchase, you will schedule a consultation with me to confirm you made the right selection. If we decide something else is better suited to your unique circumstances, we simply change your package.

If you would rather consult with me first, you can schedule a 45-minute introductory consultation with me for $75. This fee will be credited toward any package that you purchase.

Step One
Once you have purchased the correct package, the first step is to fill out simple online forms. If you have any questions during this process, you may ask me by email or schedule a 15-minute consultation.

Step Two
Once the intake forms are complete, I will then draft your documents. During the drafting phase, I may ask you clarifying questions by phone or email.

Step Three
When the drafts of the documents are ready, we will schedule a one-hour review call. We will review the documents together. This will be your opportunity to ask questions and to request minor changes be made. After the review call, you will either be ready to execute your documents or I will make the revisions that you requested. This first set of revisions is included in the package price. Any revisions after I deliver the first set of revisions are an additional fee.

Step Four
You will print your documents. There are no special requirements for the paper or the printer. Next, you will watch the signing instructions video I created for your documents. I will show you where you need to sign and initial and where the witnesses and notary sign each document. You will execute your documents. Execute is a concise, fancy (and morbid) word for “sign in front of witnesses and a notary”. Since I run a remote firm, I will not be able to provide you witnesses or a notary. This will be your responsibility. Any notary will suffice. And the witnesses can be friends, neighbors or even strangers. Online notarial services are now recognized by the state of Florida for estate planning documents, however, the witnesses still must be physically present with you when they witness your signature.

Step Five
After the execution of your documents, you will keep the documents safe in your possession. I never take possession of any of your original signed documents. However, if you want me to review the documents to make sure they were executed properly, I am happy to do so. You would need to scan the documents and send them to me by email (or upload to Box).

The only document that must be recorded is a deed (if your package contains one). You will return a scanned copy of the deed to me by email (or Box). I will then file that deed for you with your county clerk of courts.

Step Six
If you create a trust, there will be some additional steps you need to take transfer assets into your trust. I provide you written instructions on how to transfer assets into your trust. You may also ask me for guidance during a phone consultation. These steps will be your responsibility.

If you are not creating a trust, you will have a last will and testament. You may need to check on beneficiaries that you have added to financial accounts and possibly make some updates.

My default method for consultations is the regular old phone. If you prefer to use a video call platform, we will meet that way.

Each package includes:
– one 1-hour “initial” consultation
– one 15-minute “in-between” consultation
– one 1-hour “document review” consultation
– one 15-minute “follow-up” consultation

Please note that I do not “rollover” unused minutes from one consultation to another. These consultations will be more than enough for most people.

“Initial” Consultation
You can lead with any questions you might have. If not, I will ask you questions about your assets, your beneficiaries and your goals. I will advise you on how to best meet those goals and how to make the process easy on your loved ones. After the call you will know what package is best for you. After making the initial payment, I will send you some easy, concise forms to fill out online.

“In-Between” Consultation
This optional. This is available if you have questions while filling out the forms or if I have questions after reviewing your forms.

“Document Review” Consultation
I will provide you all of the documents electronically. You can review them at your own pace. I use Box for this. Box is similar to DropBox. I will invite you to collaborate on your folder. You can view the documents there, download them, or print them. It has a feature where you can leave questions and comments in the margin. This is a very useful tool. I strongly encourage you to use it. That way I can review your comments and questions before the call. Once you are ready, you will then schedule on my calendar for the document review call. We will both be viewing the documents while I address any questions or changes you want made.

“Follow-Up” Consultation
This is also optional. This might be used to review changes I made for you. Or maybe you need my advice after you sign the documents. You may use this call any way you wish.