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Estate Planning Attorney
I'm born and raised in Raleigh, so I may be a little biased, but in my opinion, it's one of the best places in the country. Geographically, being in Raleigh, I can drive four hours west to the mountains or four miles east to the Outer Banks. This geographic diversity is reflected in our people. Our metropolitan areas are some of the most educationally rich in the country, thanks to universities like Duke, UNC, NC State, Wake Forest, and several others. Yet, farming and agriculture are ingrained in our way of life, calling me to interact with people from all walks, from rural farmers to big-tech CEOs in the Research Triangle Park area. This diversity is something I love about my day-to-day work.
The most common questions I get in my workshops generally revolve around how to make things as efficient and seamless for their loved ones when they're gone. People also express concerns in regard to government entities such as medicaid or buyers from out-of-state taking their land.
We focus exclusively on estate planning. Many other firms treat estate planning as a side hustle to keep the lights on, but we do this every single day. We maintain relationships with our clients throughout their lives and extend this to their beneficiaries and children. Not many other law firms do that. We ensure clients' affairs are handled properly and consistently.
One of my passions is looking out for blended families. Most people don't realize that stepchildren are not considered by the state's default plan unless something is in writing. When I tell people this, they're often shocked.
While our documents are state-specific in the sense that they reference North Carolina law, these documents ought to be recognized anywhere. With that being said, our power-of-attorney and health-care documents are state specific, and I highly recommend having them updated if you are new to the state, or if you haven't had these documents drafted for yourself.
The most expensive probates cases generally arise when the personal representative, or executor (often a child of the decedent) are located out of state, too busy with family or business, or just not financially savvy - this all too often means this individual will need to hire a probate attorney, who then will bill hourly and is not cheap. This scenario is where costs can add up significantly.
Clients typically have questions about probate, tax implications, Medicaid, and how to protect their assets.
Being from Raleigh, I love staying local and seeing familiar faces. I also enjoy visiting Rocky Mount and Clayton, North Carolina. These towns remind me of Mayberry from "The Andy Griffith Show" with their small-town charm and single stoplight feel. Sitting in a diner in these towns is always enjoyable.
In rural areas, we often deal with very large families. Without a will or trust, property goes to heirs in equal shares, leading to fragmentation. Setting up trusts or wills allows clients to organize their assets and ensure everyone is treated fairly according to their wishes. This organization helps maintain peace and provides significant impact.
I recently met with a gentleman who just got out of the hospital. It's not too late yet, but we're expediting his documents as he may not have much time left. This is the closest I've come to a situation where it might be too late.
Client Service Coordinator
Estate planning is about more than documents—it's about peace of mind. At Oath Law in Bentonville, we help individuals and families create clear, customized estate plans that protect their future and reflect their values. Whether you're creating a will, setting up a trust, or preparing powers of attorney, our estate and financial planning team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Trusts aren't just for the ultra-wealthy—they're practical tools for many everyday families. Many types of trusts (revocable living trust, irrevocable trust, special needs trusts and more) may allow your assets to pass smoothly to loved ones without the delays, expense, and publicity of probate. Trusts can also help with asset protection, divorce protection, planning for minor children, or caring for loved ones with special needs. Our Bentonville team can help determine if a trust is right for your situation and ensure it's set up properly.
A will is a common aspect of an estate plan. Like trusts, it lets you decide who receives your assets, name guardians for minor children, and appoint someone to manage your affairs after death. However, wills often do not offer the same protections as trusts. In Bentonville, our attorneys can help you decide what kind of plan will reflect your personal goals and integrate seamlessly with your financial and retirement plan . We also help you think through decisions that many people overlook—like backup beneficiaries, trustees or personal representatives, and coordination with family once you pass away.
A power of attorney is essential in the event of incapacity. It allows a trusted person—your "agent"—to handle financial or legal matters on your behalf. Without one, your family may need to go to court to make even basic decisions, which can take months for guardianship to be granted. Our attorneys walk you through choosing the right person, deciding how much authority to give them, and making sure your document meets Arkansas’s legal standards.
What happens if you're incapacitated and unable to communicate your medical wishes? A healthcare directive (often called a living will) and a medical power of attorney give your loved ones the guidance and authority they need during difficult moments. We help Bentonville clients clearly express their preferences for care and name someone they trust to advocate for them.
Bentonville families trust Oath Law for:
Our team in Bentonville is committed to making estate planning clear, personal, and effective. Whether you need a simple will or a comprehensive trust-based plan, we'll walk you through each step with clarity, compassion, and care.
Your estate plan may include a trust, a will, a financial power of attorney, and a healthcare directive. Our Bentonville attorney and team can help you decide what you need. These documents work together to protect your assets and ensure your wishes are honored.
Absolutely. A clear plan helps prevent confusion, disagreements, and costly legal battles. It gives loved ones peace of mind and guidance during difficult times.
A will goes into effect after your death and almost always requires court oversight through the probate process in order to distribute your assets. A trust can take effect during your life and helps assets pass more efficiently, privately, and without probate. Even though a trust takes effect while you’re alive and well, you can still access all of your assets and money as needed.
Yes. You can (and should) update your estate plan as your life changes—marriage, divorce, changes to the law, grandchildren, a new home, or other major events.
"Durable" means it stays in effect if you become incapacitated. This ensures your chosen agent can still act for you when it matters most.
It depends—especially in blended families or second marriages. You can plan together or separately, and our Bentonville attorney can help you decide. You'll likely have similar documents, but you may need your own will, powers of attorney, and possibly separate trusts.
Start with an estate planning discovery call. At Oath Law in Bentonville, we'll listen to your goals, explain your options, and recommend a plan that fits your life and values—not just your legal checklist.
Yes. Estate planning isn't just for retirees—it's for anyone who wants control over their healthcare and finances. Even single adults should name someone to act on their behalf if they become unable to make decisions.
If no legal guardian is named in your will, the court will decide who takes care of your children. Naming someone in your plan ensures your wishes are known and legally enforceable.
"The team at Oath Law made everything feel easy. We finally have a plan in place and feel more at peace."
"Clear communication, flat pricing, and a truly helpful process. Highly recommend Oath to anyone getting their affairs in order."
"We were overwhelmed with the idea of estate planning, but the Oath team broke it down into simple, manageable steps. So grateful for their support."
"Everyone was patient, professional, and so knowledgeable. I appreciated how they explained everything without legal jargon."
"It feels so good to have our documents in place. The whole process was smoother and more reassuring than I expected."
809 SW I Street, Suite 19, Bentonville, AR 72712 (By appointment only)
Phone: (479) 777‑1241
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