Juneau Estate Planning Attorneys

Planning for Everyone You Love and Everything You Have

What would happen to your loved ones, your assets, and your wishes if something unexpected happened to you? If your estate plan is outdated—or if you don’t have one at all —your assets could be tied up in court, lost to the State Department of Unclaimed Property, or distributed in ways you never intended. Without a clear plan, your family may face unnecessary stress, delays, and expenses.

What is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is about more than just wills and trusts. It’s a way to legally ensure that:

- Your children will always be cared for by the people you choose.
- Your assets are passed on according to your wishes, not left to the state to decide.
- Someone you trust can make important medical and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
- Your family avoids lengthy court battles and unnecessary expenses. A well thought-out estate plan gives you control and your family clarity in times of uncertainty.

We Do Things Differently

Most people think estate planning is just about signing documents, putting them in a binder, and checking it off their to-do list. But traditional estate planning often leaves families unprepared and stuck in a mess when they need help the most.

Have you ever:

- Left a lawyer’s office feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what you just signed?
- Meant to transfer assets into your trust but never got around to it?
- Avoided calling your lawyer because you knew you’d get a bill for every minute?
- Wondered if your plan still works as your family and the law change?

This is the experience most people have—until they realize too late that their estate plan isn’t actually protecting their loved ones.

We designed our firm to serve growing families who want more than just documents—you want a real plan that works.

- Flat fees, no surprises – You’ll always know the cost upfront. No hourly billing, no unexpected charges.
- Ongoing guidance – Life changes, and so should your plan. We check in with you regularly to make sure everything stays up to date.
- Easy communication – Have a quick question? Call us. No waiting days for a response or getting billed for every minute.
- A plan that actually works – We make sure your assets are properly titled and your loved ones know exactly what to do when the time comes.

Your Estate Plan: A Step Toward Peace of Mind

At 49th Estate Planning, we simplify the estate planning process by helping you understand your assets, identify gaps in your current plan, and design a customized strategy to protect your loved ones. We offer solutions like revocable living trusts to avoid probate and minimize taxes. Learn more about how we can guide you through this important process below.

How We Help You Plan for the Future

At 49th Estate Planning, we make the process simple and stress-free. It all starts with a Life & Legacy Planning Session, where we help you:
✔ Get a clear understanding of what you own and how it would be handled if something happened to you.
✔ Identify any gaps or risks in your current plan (or lack of one).
✔ Design a customized estate plan that protects your loved ones and keeps your assets out of unnecessary court processes.

Can You DIY Your Estate Plan?

Many online services offer fill-in-the-blank estate planning, but here’s the problem: most DIY plans don’t work when your family needs them most. They often rely on generic templates that fail to address your unique circumstances, leaving gaps that could result in costly legal battles. While a DIY approach might seem like a quick fix, estate planning isn’t just about documents—it’s about ensuring your wishes are honored and your family is protected. A one-size-fits-all solution may not provide the security you think it does.

Take the First Step Toward Peace of Mind

Estate planning is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. It eliminates guesswork and legal battles, ensuring that your wishes are honored.
Your plan is about more than just finances—it protects your values, stories, and experiences, passing them down to future generations. With the right plan in place, you gain peace of mind knowing everything will be taken care of when it matters most.

How it Works

Our estate planning process is designed to be simple, transparent, and stress-free, with a flat fee structure so you don’t have to worry about extra charges for quick calls or additional time.

Initial Call & Planning Session

Many clients first connect with us by scheduling a quick 15-minute call with our intake coordinator. It’s a chance to share some basic information and get a feel for how we work. From there, we’ll help you book a 2-hour Planning Session with one of our attorneys—typically scheduled about three weeks out.

Personalized Plan & Design

During your Planning Session, we’ll walk through a detailed inventory of your family, assets, and what matters most to you. Together with your attorney, you’ll design a personalized estate plan that fits your life and goals. Within a week, you’ll receive a clear overview of the design, and about five weeks later, you’ll finalize everything by signing your completed plan.

Trust Funding and Long-Term Care

Once your plan is in place, we’ll help you transfer assets into the trust— easier for you than your kids. After trust funding, we’ll deliver your binder, giving you peace of mind. Plus, you can join our Family Care Program to keep your plan up to date.

Testimonials

“Liz Smith and her team gave us peace of mind that we have our end-of-life plans in place. We were able to accomplish all business virtually and recommend their professional, knowledgeable services to our friends in Southeast Alaska.”

— MM

“Liz and everyone in your office was courteous and great to work with. I would definitely recommend you to anyone considering estate planning.”

— Mike and Laurie Sica

— B and T Suson

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is estate planning?

Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and distribution of your assets after your death or in case you become incapacitated. It includes creating legal documents like wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.

Do I really need a will or trust?

If you have assets, children, or loved ones you want to protect, a will or trust is essential to ensure your wishes are followed. A trust can help avoid probate and may provide greater control over how your assets are distributed.

What’s the difference between a will and a trust?

A will outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death, while a trust allows you to transfer assets during your lifetime, manage them, and avoid the probate process. A trust can also include provisions for asset management if you become incapacitated.

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process that takes place after someone passes away to ensure their assets are distributed according to their will—or by state law if there’s no will. It typically involves proving the validity of the will, appointing an executor or personal representative, identifying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing what’s left to heirs. In Alaska, probate can be time-consuming and costly if not planned for, which is why many families choose to create a trust to help avoid it altogether.

What happens if I don’t have an estate plan?

If you don’t have a will or trust, your assets will be distributed according to state law, which may not align with your wishes. If you have minor children, the state will determine guardianship, which could result in an outcome that doesn’t reflect your preferences.

How can I protect my family’s future with estate planning?

Estate planning ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, and that your loved ones are cared for. It also provides for guardianship of minor children, and can include healthcare directives and powers of attorney to protect your interests in case of incapacity.

When should I update my estate plan?

It’s important to review and update your estate plan after major life events, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the acquisition of new assets. Regular reviews help ensure your plan reflects your current situation and wishes.

What are the costs of estate planning?

Estate planning costs vary depending on your situation and the type of plan you wish to set up. Our plans provide a comprehensive foundation at a flat-fee that will be agreed upon ahead of time before we get started. Those fees range from 3k-17K+. This includes more than just your foundational legal document like a Will or a Trust. Contact us today to learn more about what our services include.

What is a healthcare directive?

A healthcare directive, also known as a living will, specifies your medical wishes in the event that you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions. It may also appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf.

What is a durable power of attorney?

A durable power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone to manage your financial affairs in case you become incapacitated. Unlike a regular power of attorney, a durable one remains effective even if you are unable to make decisions.

Can I change my estate plan later?

Yes, estate plans can be updated or changed as your life circumstances evolve. It’s recommended to review your plan periodically to ensure it remains aligned with your wishes.

Bringing Estate Planning Education Across Alaska

At 49th Estate Planning, we believe that everyone deserves the tools and knowledge to protect their family and build a meaningful legacy. That’s why we’re hitting the road, visiting communities across Alaska to host free educational events about estate planning.

Our goal is simple: to make estate planning accessible, approachable, and understandable for every Alaskan. We know that questions about wills, trusts, and financial planning can feel overwhelming, so we’re here to break it all down in a way that’s practical and empowering.

These events are about more than just information—they’re about creating connections. By coming to your community, we want to ensure you have the opportunity to ask questions, get expert insights, and take steps to secure your future, all in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Estate planning isn’t just about preparing for the unexpected; it’s about taking control of your legacy. We’re committed to helping individuals and families across Alaska feel protected, nurtured, and confident in their decisions.

Where We’re Headed Next

Check out our upcoming visits and join us at a location near you. We can’t wait to meet you, answer your questions, and help you take the next step toward a secure future.

Juneau

May

Ketchikan

October

Sitka

April

Kodiak

Soon

Wrangell

May

Haines

Soon

Petersburg

May

Skagway

Soon

Yakutat

Soon

Fairbanks

May

Client Services Associate

Position Overview:

We are opening new offices in Anchorage and Fairbanks and are looking for a Client Services Associate in each location to help launch and run these locations. This is a unique opportunity for someone who thrives working independently, enjoys connecting with people, and takes pride in keeping things organized and moving forward.

In this role, you will often be the only team member in the office, serving as the point person for clients, attorneys, and day-to-day operations. One moment you may be welcoming a client or supporting a meeting, and the next you may be preparing documents, scanning, or ensuring everything is in order behind the scenes.

This position is ideal for someone who:

enjoys both client interaction and detailed administrative work
is comfortable taking initiative and figuring things out independently
takes ownership and treats the office as their own
is excited to help build and grow a new location over time

Responsibilities

Meet with estate planning clients for various aspects of our process
Process and scan incoming client documentation
Prepare client binders before signing appointments and scan afterwards
Provide quality assurance to ensure any necessary changes are made
In charge of mailing various correspondence to clients
Pre-event preparation ensuring ample supplies and documents are available at live events
Process event signup forms and enter client information into system following events
Maintain office cleanliness and provide refreshments for clients visiting the office
Serve as backup support for various firm operations as needed
Maintain accurate and organized files and records
Spending approximately 60% of the time working independently
Participating in team meetings and interacting with clients for the remaining 40%

Qualifications

High school diploma required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
4+ years experience in administrative support or similar role
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency with document management systems and scanning equipment
Strong attention to detail and proofreading skills
Excellent organizational and time management abilities
Professional demeanor and client service orientation

Benefits

Competitive compensation of 60-75k, based on experience
35 hour work week (9-5 M-F). This position is in office.
Generous holiday and leave packages
Healthcare benefits
Opportunity for 401k participation after 1 year of continuous service
Opportunities for professional development and growth within the firm
A supportive and collaborative team environment

Gloria Jones - Attorney

Gloria is an attorney at 49th Estate Planning, based in Glennallen, AK, where she has spent most of her life. Her firsthand experience living in a rural area fuels her passion for improving legal access in underserved communities.

Hannah Etengoff-Hoyt - Attorney

Hannah is an attorney with 49^th Estate Planning based in Wrangell, AK. After six years as a public defender, she has extensive experience guiding clients through the legal system and helping them understand complex processes with clarity and confidence. She now brings that same experience and commitment to helping individuals and families protect what matters most.

Stephanie DeVaughn –Head of Intake & Outreach

As the Head of Intake & Outreach, Stephanie is often the first point of contact for clients starting their estate planning journey. If you book an appointment, she’ll follow up to guide you through the process and ensure you have everything you need.

Rebecca Garcia (Becky) – Client Services Director

Becky is our Client Services Director and the friendly voice on the other end of the phone or email. With over a decade of legal experience ranging from Legal Assistant to Paralegal, she ensures clear communication and accuracy in everything that leaves the office. Originally from Kake, Alaska, she holds a BA in Psychology from Whitworth University and enjoys crocheting, reading, and time with her husband and pets.

Jennifer Oetting - Director of Operations

Jennifer, our Director of Operations, brings a diverse background in finance, healthcare, banking, and nonprofits to support clients with clarity and care. She holds a degree in Business and Human Resources. Based in Columbia, Missouri, she enjoys gardening, travel, yoga, and spending time with her family and pets.

Isabel Lee – Paralegal

Isabel is a highly experienced paralegal providing exceptional support to our estate planning and administration clients. With decades of experience in family law, she brings valuable expertise and attention to detail to our team.

Who You Are: Estate Planning for Every Family Dynamic

We are all unique. Your childhood experiences were different than your best friend, your job duties are different, your family situations are different, and so on. It turns out we aren’t all the same, that’s why estate planning is an individualized process and can’t be accomplished with the standardized DIY tools found on the internet.

You may be single, married, have children or not. The one common denominator is that you truly and deeply care about the people in your life and you want to make things as easy as possible for them, if and when something happens to you.

Your wealth isn’t measured just by the dollars in the bank, but by the well-being of the people you love.

Family People

Your wealth isn’t measured just by the dollars in the bank, but by the well-being of the people you love.

To read up on the specifics of estate planning based on your situation, check out our detailed service listings here.

Single Parents

You have the primary responsibility for ensuring the well-being and care of your children. If something happens to you while they are minors, you want to ensure you’ve made the decision about who cares for them, and how. In the most ideal scenario, your child’s other parent would be suitable to take custody of your child, if you cannot
be there. But in many cases, that’s not possible, or desired.
And, even if it is, you may want the financial resources you are leaving behind cared for by someone other than
your former spouse or partner.
No matter what the scenario, as a single parent (whether your child’s other parent is in the picture or not), you need to take the steps necessary to legally document who you would want raising your child, and how you would want your child raised, and how you want your assets handled for your child, in case anything happens to you. We know you are busy and promise to make the process as simple and easy for you as possible.

To get started right away, click here to schedule an appointment online. You may also call our office at 907-
312-5436 to schedule an appointment.

Married with children

When you are married with children, estate planning is usually pretty straightforward. You want your spouse making decisions for you if you are incapacitated, and you want to make sure your assets go to your spouse when you die, and then to your children after your spouse is gone.
Seems simple, right? Except that the court process when someone dies (called probate) takes a LONG time and can be stressful for families at a time when they are mourning. It is also expensive, and can leave your family open to fighting about all sorts of things. Plus, does your family even know where all your assets are? There are billions of dollars in states’
departments of unclaimed property because often times families do not know where to look. There are a myriad of questions that need to be answered to ensure your family stays out of court, and out of conflict, in the event of your incapacity or death. And, some tactical specifics that need to happen to ensure your assets don’t end up lost to the State Department of Unclaimed Property because your family overlooks something when you can’t be there to guide them. And, if you are in a second (or third or more) marriage situation with children from a prior marriage (we call this a “blended family”), well it’s an almost guarantee the people you love will end up in conflict, if you don’t plan ahead.

Most of all, your wealth isn’t measured just by the dollars in your bank account, but by the well-being of the people you love. You care enough to get your estate planning handled so your family will stay out of court and out of conflict, no matter what. We know you are busy and promise to make the process as simple and easy for you as possible.

To get started right away, click here to schedule an appointment online. You may also call our office at 907-312-5436 to schedule an appointment.

Blended Families

If you are in a second (or third or more) marriage, and you have children from a prior marriage, you must engage in estate planning that will keep the people you love out of conflict.

No matter how close or friendly you think your new spouse and your children are, there is simply an unavoidable, inherent conflict between them upon your death.

Having said that, this conflict can be mitigated and you can ensure that the people you love most — your new spouse and your children — will each be well-taken care of with the most ease possible.

You can even take actions to support their being on the same team with each other in a time of grief.

It does take planning though, and we are well-trained and highly skilled in planning for the needs of “blended families”, which is the term of art in the legal profession for people who are in second (or third or more) marriages with children from a prior marriage.

So, if you are in a second (or third or more) marriage, contact us for a Life & Legacy Planning Session so we can look together at everything you own, and everyone you love, and what would happen to all of it, when something happens to you. Then, you can get informed, educated and empowered to make the right planning decisions for the people you love.

To get started right away, click here to schedule an appointment online. You may also call our office at 907-312-5436 to schedule an appointment.

Life partners with or without children

In so many ways, estate planning is the very most important for you when you are not married, but have a life partner. And, if you have children together, well it’s exponentially more important for you to get your estate planning handled right.

The law does not protect your love if you are not married, period.

You have to take action yourself to ensure you will have access to your loved one’s hospital bedside, and that your unmarried loved one will have access to you, if you are hospitalized.

If you do not take action, it’s very likely that the person you love most in the world could be blocked from being with you in an accident, or making health care decisions for you, or deciding what you are nourished with, or who gets to see you.

And, that’s just your healthcare. Without the protection of estate planning, the person you love most in the world could be thrown out of your house, ejected from your business, or locked out of your finances.

If you have children together, they could even be taken out of your partners care.

Estate planning when you are unmarried isn’t optional. It’s truly a matter of life and death for the people you love most.

We know you are busy and promise to make the process as simple and easy for you as possible.

To get started right away, click here to schedule an appointment online. You may also call our office at 907-312-5436 to schedule an appointment.

Adults without children

You don’t have children, but you do have a spouse, partner, or other loved ones, and you want to ensure things are as easy for them as possible if and when something happens to you.

You want to pass on what you have worked so hard for your entire life, and do it in a way that helps your loved ones know and feel your love just when they’ll need to most.

On top of that, and maybe even more importantly, you want to choose who will receive what you’ve worked so hard to create, and also ensure that your “chosen family” will be able to care for and love you, in the event you are incapacitated and cannot make healthcare decisions for yourself.

Your wealth isn’t measured just by the dollars in your bank account, but by the well-being of the people you love. You care enough to get your estate planning handled so your loved ones will not get stuck in court or conflict, when you become incapacitated or die.

We know you are busy and promise to make the process as simple and easy for you as possible.

To get started right away, click here to schedule an appointment online. You may also call our office at 907-312-5436 to schedule an appointment.

Planning for Everyone You Love and Everything You Have

What is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is about more than just wills and trusts. It’s a way to legally ensure that:

- Your children will always be cared for by the people you choose.
- Your assets are passed on according to your wishes, not left to the state to decide.
- Someone you trust can make important medical and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
- Your family avoids lengthy court battles and unnecessary expenses. A well thought-out estate plan gives you control and your family clarity in times of uncertainty.

Get in Touch

We’re here to help you create a plan that brings peace of mind and protects your loved ones. Whether you’re just starting your estate planning journey or need help refining an existing plan, we’re ready to assist.

If you would like to schedule a call at a time that works for you, click the button below or fill out the form. We’ll get back to you shortly.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: (907) 312-5436

Address: Jordan Creek Center
8800 Glacier Hwy, Suite 222
Juneau, AK 99801.

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That’s okay—just fill out this form and we’ll get back to you shortly to answer your questions or help you get started.

Disclaimer: The information you obtain at this website is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your own individual situation. No attorney-client relationship is intended or formed by viewing this website, downloading and using the contents, forms, tips or information found on this website. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters, and email. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Client testimonials or endorsements do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.