HOLLY LEMIEUX
A partner in planning
I focus my practice on Drafting Estate Plans (including Wills & Trusts) Elder Law, Medicaid Planning, Special Needs Planning, Incapacity Planning, Probate Matters and Trust Administration. To stay effective as a licensed attorney in Vermont and Massachusetts, I teach and attend continuing legal education workshops, I am active in legal associations and I read voluminous materials that help me grow and explore the latest in estate planning strategies. I am a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), WealthCounsel, Massachusetts Forum of Estate Planning Attorneys, the Vermont Bar Association Probate and Trust Law Division and the Vermont Bar Association Elder Law Division. I also maintain continuing relationships with organizations and facilities that assist individuals with special needs, people with disabilities and the aging community. I love my work and continue to challenge myself to improve and grow through the evolving resources available.
I am an Attorney licensed to practice law in Vermont and Massachusetts. I obtained my Juris Doctor degree from Western New England College School of Law in Springfield, Massachusetts, in 1993 after graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts in 1989.
I began my legal career in Massachusetts at a law firm with 30 attorneys. There, over 15 years, I obtained extensive civil trial experience and became a training partner. Through my trial experience, I developed skills in basic estate planning and special needs planning. In 2011, I opened this law practice. I maintain licenses to practice law in both Massachusetts and Vermont.
PLANNING TOGETHER
1
Life Circumstances, Concerns and Wishes
Planning for what may happen should there be an accident, illness, or death is overwhelming for many people. It is very common for people to be uncomfortable with these subjects or to avoid discussing these topics entirely.
Due to the sensitive nature of the topics, I spend some time learning about you, so that I can determine what you hope to accomplish through your estate planning. I listen carefully to each client's individual life circumstances, concerns and wishes.
2
Drafting the Documents
I then explain the Vermont Laws and federal laws that apply to your situation, making sure you understand the process and the issues involved. This may entail such issues as tax consequences, the impact of certain measures on government benefits, Medicaid eligibility, and privacy laws. Once you are comfortable with the issues, I suggest the best course of action and work with you to design a plan that will achieve your goals within the bounds of the applicable state and federal laws. After drafting the appropriate documents, I review them with you to ensure they state your desired goals. I believe that clients should leave my office having felt that we have planned for their future together.
3
Continued Care Over Time
After you sign the documents, I remain available for you or your agents should a need arise. Whether we are discussing the documents in the estate plan, needs for loved ones with disabilities or developing a plan for life changes, such as diagnosis of illness, I seek to partner with my clients in making a plan that works for them.