Visiting clients in the comfort of their own homes is a cornerstone of my estate planning law practice. Unlike many attorneys who rarely step outside their office, I, Stefanie West, have structured my work to prioritize client convenience and deeper understanding through regular home visits. Typically, my week is divided with two days in the office and three dedicated to meeting clients at their residences. Equipped with my essential resources in a rolling bag – a thoughtful gift from a cherished client – I often feel like a legal Mary Poppins, ready to bring solutions directly to you.
There are several key benefits to conducting meetings in my clients’ homes. Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, it fosters a more relaxed and comfortable environment. Clients naturally feel more at ease at home, which allows us to build stronger rapport and spend quality time truly understanding their needs and family dynamics. Being in their home environment allows me to see glimpses into their lives – family photos, treasured heirlooms – providing valuable context and a more personal understanding of their family values and wishes for their estate plan.
Secondly, home visits often enhance efficiency. Estate planning involves compiling various documents, and when we meet at your home, accessing necessary paperwork becomes seamless. No more searching for misplaced documents or rescheduling meetings due to forgotten items. This streamlined process helps us address all aspects of your estate plan more effectively and reduces outstanding tasks.
Finally, the appreciation clients express for the convenience of home visits is incredibly rewarding. This personalized approach is not just about legal service; it’s about building relationships and understanding individual needs. And yes, I have been fortunate to be treated to some wonderful homemade treats as a token of gratitude!
Please note: Home visits are arranged to best serve each client’s needs and are primarily offered to clients in East Contra Costa County (including Summerset, Trilogy, and Discovery Bay) and those who find traveling to my Walnut Creek office challenging.
Beyond the legal documents, I, Stefanie The Lawyer, aim to be a supportive presence in my clients’ lives, during both joyous and challenging times. Recently, I happily accepted a Saturday invitation to a client’s surprise birthday party, an opportunity to connect with her children and their spouses and understand the family dynamics. Conversely, I have also been there to offer support during difficult times, such as accompanying a client the night she helped her mother transition to a nursing home. Whether it’s discussing estate planning wishes with adult children or providing comfort after the loss of a loved one, I strive to be a consistent and caring resource for my clients.
When it comes to fees, transparency and clarity are paramount. One of the first questions potential clients ask is about cost. In the vast majority of estate planning projects, I operate on a flat fee basis. This approach offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it provides clients with peace of mind. Knowing the complete cost upfront allows clients to relax and focus on the important matter at hand – their estate plan – rather than worrying about an hourly clock ticking. In my experience, flat fees foster open communication and allow us to connect on a more personal level, sharing stories and building trust without the pressure of time constraints. Secondly, flat fee billing simplifies administration for my practice, eliminating the need for meticulous time tracking in small increments. Lastly, and most importantly, it eliminates any financial surprises.
While flat fees are my standard practice, some complex matters necessitate hourly billing. In such cases, I ensure complete transparency, providing a clear and honest estimate of the project’s potential cost and diligently working to remain within the agreed-upon fee range.
I firmly believe in building lasting client relationships based on trust and open communication, not on counting every minute. We have all experienced professionals who bill for every minor interaction, even brief phone calls. While fair compensation is essential, nickel-and-diming clients discourages necessary communication. I recall a personal experience with a professional who billed me for irrelevant conversations, a practice that immediately ended our working relationship.
My aim is to create an environment where clients feel comfortable reaching out whenever they have questions or concerns. Clients know they can call me from the bank for guidance on retitling accounts into their trust or for advice on re-deeding their home after refinancing, without incurring extra charges for these quick consultations. Similarly, I typically do not bill for standard copies, office supplies, or travel expenses for home visits. Should a client’s query require substantial time for research or consultation (typically exceeding 45 minutes), I will always communicate upfront about potential billing for my time. Clients generally recognize the fairness of this approach and appreciate the value of proactive communication in estate planning.
This client-centric billing philosophy stems from several core principles. Firstly, accuracy and thoroughness are paramount. I want clients to seek guidance without hesitation, ensuring informed decisions and preventing potential errors that could take longer to rectify later. Secondly, the administrative time spent generating detailed bills often outweighs the time taken to address a quick client question. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I believe in the principle of reciprocity. By being generous with my time and going the extra mile for my clients, I foster strong relationships built on trust and mutual respect, which ultimately leads to valuable referrals from satisfied clients to their friends and family.
Recognizing that estate planning often intersects with other areas of life, I have cultivated a network of trusted professionals, from in-home care providers to financial advisors and contractors. I aim to connect my clients with individuals and services I would confidently recommend to my own parents, ensuring they receive comprehensive support in all aspects of their lives. Let Stefanie West, the lawyer who prioritizes your needs, guide you through the estate planning process with personalized care and expertise.
