Estate Planning Attorney
Wills • Trusts • Trust Administration • Probate
I believe the best inheritance you can leave behind is a good estate plan with clear directives that take the guess work out of the process allowing loved ones the space to celebrate your life.
We tend to put future planning on the back burner to deal with what is right in front of us but when you make a good estate plan, you give yourself and your loved ones a gift that prepares all of you for the inevitability of life's path. Whether a will or a trust, having your wishes spelled out and directives in place will ease the burden on everyone.
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In California, if you pass away without a plan, the legislature decides who gets what part of your estate. This can be very stressful on family and cause unnecessary cost, delay, and grief in what is already a stressful and difficult time.
“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”
– Warren Buffett
Practice Areas
Estate Planning
There are several options to creating a good estate plan. Whether a will or a trust, we can discuss the differences between the approaches and decide what makes the most sense for you and your family. A good estate plan will always include health care directives and powers of attorney to help your loved ones make decisions on your behalf when you are no longer able to do so. My goal is to make the process of deciding what kind of plan you need as easy as possible and help give you and your family the gift of peace of mind.
Probate
Have you been named the executor of someone's will? Did a loved one pass away with or without a will but no trust? Are you a trustee or beneficiary of a will or trust and have questions? I can help. The California Probate system can be very challenging for those unfamiliar with the process. My goal is to take the reins so you don't have to navigate the complicated probate process alone.
Trust Administration
Trust administration involves managing and distributing assets according to the terms of a trust. It is a complex process that requires attention to detail, knowledge of tax laws, and the ability to work with financial institutions and other professionals. I can help guide you through this process, ensuring that the Grantor's wishes are carried out according to trust documents and upholding the duties and loyalties as a Trustee.
Jelena Kelleher, JD, LL.M.
(pronounced: Yell-in-a)
After graduating from law school in 2006, I spent many years as a University administrator and Professor at Golden Gate University in San Francisco before launching my own Estate Planning practice. I recently completed a Masters of Law (LL.M.) in Estate Planning and graduated with honors.
Being an educator, I am committed to empowering through education. It is really important to me that my clients fully understand the process, their options, and feel empowered to make the right choices. My practice is built on a foundation of compassion, patience and integrity because those things are important to me.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, baking, playing golf, and working on puzzles!
Phone and Zoom appointments available