Sarah M was incredible to work with. She made everything so much easier for me and was unbelievably kind.
At Ellis Family Law in North Carolina, our estate planning attorneys help individuals and families across Wake County create customized estate plans that reflect their values, provide peace of mind, and minimize future stress for loved ones. From drafting Wills and Trusts to establishing Powers of Attorney and healthcare directives, we offer thoughtful guidance every step of the way.
Estate planning is about making sure your family is cared for, your wishes are honored, and your life’s work continues with clarity and intention. Whether you are starting fresh or updating an existing plan, working with a trusted Raleigh estate planning attorney gives you the tools to protect what matters most.
Estate planning is the process of organizing your affairs to prepare for incapacity, end-of-life care, and the distribution of your assets after death. A good estate plan:
No matter your age, income, or family situation, having a plan in place ensures your wishes are respected and your family isn’t left guessing.
A comprehensive estate plan typically includes several key documents. Our Raleigh estate planning lawyers take the time to explain each option so you can make informed decisions based on your needs.
A Will allows you to:
If you pass away without a valid Will in North Carolina, the state’s intestacy laws determine who inherits your assets—regardless of your personal wishes.
A Trust is a legal arrangement that allows a trustee to manage and distribute property according to your instructions. Trusts can be used to:
A Durable Power of Attorney allows you to appoint someone to handle your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. Without one, your family may have to seek court permission to manage your finances—a time-consuming and stressful process.
We help ensure your Power of Attorney is legally sound, clearly written, and tailored to your preferences.
A Health Care Power of Attorney and Living Will let you choose who will make medical decisions on your behalf and what types of care you want (or don’t want) in the event you can’t speak for yourself.
These documents provide comfort for your family and help avoid confusion or conflict during critical moments.
If you are a parent, estate planning is about more than assets; it’s about protecting your children’s future. We help families:
We take a compassionate, detailed approach to give parents peace of mind and long-term protection.
Estate plans are not “one and done.” You should review and update your plan after significant events such as:
We review your existing documents, identify gaps, and recommend smart updates that keep your plan current and effective.
Blended families often have unique planning needs, especially when there are children from previous relationships or differing financial goals. We help spouses:
Our Raleigh estate planning attorneys provide tailored solutions that foster clarity, trust, and long-term harmony.
Probate is the legal process of settling your estate through the court system after death. It can be time-consuming, expensive, and public.
We help clients use tools like:
These strategies reduce the burden on your family and ensure a smoother transfer of assets.
We break down legal concepts so you can make confident, informed decisions.
We break down legal concepts so you can make confident, informed decisions.
We understand how life, relationships, and the law intersect—and we help you navigate it all with care
We’ve been serving individuals and families throughout Raleigh, Cary, and surrounding areas for years.
Whether you’re preparing for retirement, starting a family, or building generational wealth, we help you protect the future you’re working hard to build.
Our board-certified specialists lead every case with strategy, care, and a commitment to your best outcome.
Sarah M was incredible to work with. She made everything so much easier for me and was unbelievably kind.
...Sarah M was incredible to work with. She made everything so much easier for me and was unbelievably kind.
Family Law issues can be extremely difficult and consuming. I have had the pleasure of working with Ellis Family Law for over 3 yrs and am positive I had the...
Family Law issues can be extremely difficult and consuming. I have had the pleasure of working with Ellis Family Law for over 3 yrs and am positive I had the best representation in Durham county. Gray, Autumn and the rest of the team have been quick to communicate and explain the legal process and always had my children’s and my best interest in mind.
I highly recommend this skilled team of legal professionals for any family law matter. You won’t be disappointed.
I love Ellis Family Law, won’t go anywhere else. From the first time you even walk in everyone is so nice and attentive. When I came in, I didn’t even...
I love Ellis Family Law, won’t go anywhere else. From the first time you even walk in everyone is so nice and attentive. When I came in, I didn’t even know where to start. I think there’s 2 Sarahs so her last name was Mercer, but Sarah M. was amazing! She was so kind, I felt so cared for and she answered all my questions and even talked me through legal terms I didn’t quite understand. What a good experience to turn around such an anxious day for me.
I highly recommend Sonya as an estate attorney. She listened carefully to my described goals and came up with a customized plan for my personal situation. She is an exceptionally...
I highly recommend Sonya as an estate attorney. She listened carefully to my described goals and came up with a customized plan for my personal situation. She is an exceptionally good communicator, very knowledgeable in the field of estate planning, easy to work with and an amiable person.
From day one, Kathleen made me feel supported and heard. She is comforting, pays close attention to every detail, and responds quickly. I continue to fully trust her to protect...
From day one, Kathleen made me feel supported and heard. She is comforting, pays close attention to every detail, and responds quickly. I continue to fully trust her to protect both my best interests and my son’s. I am beyond thankful for Kathleen.
Every interaction I’ve had with Sarah M. has been positive. She’s always helpful, professional, and kind. It’s clear she truly cares about the people she works with. I wouldn’t hesitate...
Every interaction I’ve had with Sarah M. has been positive. She’s always helpful, professional, and kind. It’s clear she truly cares about the people she works with. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her.
You don’t have to have it all figured out before starting the estate planning process. All you need is a willingness to plan—and a trusted legal team to guide you.
We’ll help you create a plan that brings clarity now—and comfort later.
Raleigh Office
Ellis Family Law, P.L.L.C.
1101 Haynes St, Raleigh, NC 27604
Fax: 877-678-1584
Mon – Thur 9:00am – 5:00pm
Fri – 9:00am - 3:00pm
And for a fun twist: don’t miss our “Pour Decisions” section, featuring wine tips from our lawyer-wine specialist Gray Ellis!
