Estate planning doesn't have to be a maze of legal jargon and court dates. These five attorneys are changing how families protect their legacies—with clarity, compassion, and a focus on keeping you out of probate.
The Shift Toward Probate Avoidance
Probate is a public, expensive, and emotionally draining process that many families don’t realize they can avoid. Today’s estate planning attorneys are moving beyond simple wills to offer comprehensive strategies—like living trusts, beneficiary designations, and proper asset titling—that keep your hard-earned assets out of the courtroom. The best firms combine deep legal knowledge with a client-centered approach, making complex decisions simple and stress-free. Whether you're a parent, homeowner, or business owner, the goal is the same: protect your relationships, honor your wishes, and make life easier for the people you love.
How We Evaluated These Firms
We looked at each firm’s service scope, clarity of communication, and how well they tailor strategies to avoid probate. We also considered their ability to educate clients—because the best estate plan is one you actually understand. Each firm brings a unique strength, from specialized probate avoidance packages to a warm, human approach that demystifies the legal process. No single firm is 'best' for everyone; it’s about finding the right fit for your family’s needs.
Here’s a quick snapshot of each firm to help you compare at a glance.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| LifeGen Law Group | Comprehensive estate planning with a broad service range |
| Abby Bakos | Estate Planning Attorney & Probate Educator | Families seeking a relatable, client-centered approach to probate avoidance |
| Pearson Bollman Law | Midwestern families wanting local expertise and free educational resources |
| Troy M. Moore, PLLC | Clients who want a dedicated, no-frills probate avoidance package |
| Collens Estate Law | Michigan residents seeking expert guidance on probate avoidance and litigation |
The Detailed Look
#1 LifeGen Law Group
A screenshot of the LifeGen Law Group website.
LifeGen Law Group is a full-service firm that covers everything from business succession planning to elder law and wealth protection. Their blog post on '5 Reasons to Avoid Probate' breaks down why probate is something you want to sidestep—covering the time, expense, and public nature of the process. They offer a wide range of services, including revocable and irrevocable trusts, charitable planning, and real estate succession. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop that can handle complex estates, LifeGen has the depth and expertise. Their team emphasizes proactive planning, helping you avoid court involvement before it becomes an issue. For families with diverse assets, this firm provides a comprehensive safety net.
#2 Abby Bakos | Estate Planning Attorney & Probate Educator
A screenshot of the Abby Bakos website.
Abby Bakos, founder of Bakos Law, LLC, makes estate planning simple, human, and stress-free. With over 12 years of experience, she explains complex legal decisions in clear, simple language so you feel supported, not overwhelmed. Her signature keynote, 'Your Legacy, Their Future,' teaches families how to stay out of probate and in control—covering wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations. Abby’s approach is warm and deeply practical: less paperwork, more peace. She helps parents, homeowners, and everyday families choose the right decision-makers and protect their legacy with confidence. If you want an attorney who feels like a trusted guide, Abby is your match.
#3 Pearson Bollman Law
A screenshot of the Pearson Bollman Law website.
Pearson Bollman Law is a Midwest firm with offices in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and beyond, offering a full range of estate planning and elder law services. They provide free workshops and on-demand webinars to help you avoid costly mistakes that can wipe out your legacy. Their team of experienced attorneys—including Matthew Bollman and Chad Eichorn—focuses on giving your family the gift of clarity. They emphasize joint and individual revocable living trusts, which are key tools for avoiding probate. If you’re in Iowa or Kansas, their local presence and educational resources make them a strong choice. They’re all about proactive planning that keeps your assets out of court.
#4 Troy M. Moore, PLLC
A screenshot of the Troy M. Moore, PLLC website.
Troy M. Moore, PLLC offers a specialized Probate Avoidance Package™ that’s designed to keep your estate out of court entirely. Troy breaks down why probate is expensive, time-consuming, and public—and how you can avoid it by situating your assets correctly. He explains that a Last Will & Testament is just a list of instructions that still requires court involvement, which surprises many clients. His firm focuses on expert strategies that bypass the probate process altogether, giving you privacy and peace of mind. If you want a no-nonsense, direct approach to probate avoidance, Troy’s package is worth a look. He’s all about saving you money and hassle in the long run.
#5 Collens Estate Law
A screenshot of the Collens Estate Law website.
Collens Estate Law, based in Michigan, specializes in helping families avoid probate through strategies like living trusts and proper asset titling. Their team, led by Howard H. Collens and Olivia Mihajlovski, works closely with you to find the right approach for your unique situation. They also handle probate litigation and trust administration, so they’re well-versed in what happens when things go wrong. Their educational resources cover everything from digital assets to special needs trusts, making them a versatile choice. If you’re in Michigan and want a firm that combines deep probate knowledge with a compassionate touch, Collens is a solid option. They’re committed to sparing your family the stress of court involvement during an already difficult time.
How to Choose the Right Estate Planning Attorney
Start by thinking about your family’s unique needs—do you have a business, real estate, or a blended family? Look for an attorney who explains things in plain language, not legalese. Ask about their experience with probate avoidance strategies like living trusts and beneficiary designations. Consider their location and whether they offer virtual consultations, especially if you’re not nearby. Finally, trust your gut: you want someone who makes you feel supported, not overwhelmed. The right attorney will empower you to make informed decisions with confidence.
Streamlining Your Estate Plan with Automation
Many of these firms now use automated intake forms and online scheduling to make the process smoother. You can often start by filling out a questionnaire online, then book a consultation without endless phone tag. Some even offer digital document signing, so you can finalize your plan from home. This tech-forward approach saves you time and reduces stress, letting you focus on what matters most—your family’s future.
Your Legacy, Your Control
No matter which attorney you choose, the goal is the same: keep your family out of court and protect what matters most. Each of these five professionals brings a unique strength, from Abby Bakos’s warm, human touch to LifeGen’s comprehensive services. Take the time to research, ask questions, and find the one who feels right for you. Your legacy is too important to leave to chance—start planning today.