Phoenix, Arizona Estate Planning Attorneys Securing Your Legacy

Protecting Your Family and Assets Through Strategic Planning

Planning for the future is essential to ensure your assets, healthcare decisions, and family’s well-being are protected. Estate planning involves more than drafting a will—it includes establishing trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and other legal instruments to safeguard your legacy. Skilled Phoenix estate planning lawyers provide strategic guidance and personalized solutions to help individuals and families navigate these important decisions with confidence.

At Burnham Law, we assist clients throughout Phoenix and surrounding areas in developing comprehensive estate plans that reflect their unique goals and circumstances. Our attorneys work closely with clients to protect assets, provide for loved ones, and ensure that their wishes are honored. By combining deep legal knowledge with a compassionate approach, we help families create plans that offer clarity, security, and peace of mind.

Ali Vandenberg

Associate Attorney - Domestic Relations

Colorado Springs

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She graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in Political Science and Criminal Justice before earning her law degree with high honors from Drake University Law School. During her time in law school, she was actively involved in several organizations, including the Children’s Rights Clinic, where she represented children in Dependency and Neglect cases, as well as the Student Bar Association and Law Review. She also gained experience as a Legal Writing Fellow and was a member of the Client Counseling Team. Before joining the Colorado bar, Ali was admitted to practice in Iowa. She worked at a general practice firm, where she gained extensive experience in family law, juvenile law, real estate, and business and estate planning. Ali is dedicated to being a compassionate and zealous advocate for her clients, recognizing the emotional and often high-conflict nature of family law, civil demand letters and probate matters. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys running, skiing, and traveling...

Allison Sutton

Senior Associate- Domestic Relations

Colorado Springs

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Allison brings a unique blend of business and legal expertise to her practice. After earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Georgia, she worked full-time while attending Georgia State University College of Law in the evenings, where she earned her JD. Although born in Texas, Allison’s upbringing included time in Colorado and Georgia. After completing her education in Georgia, she decided to return to Colorado to begin her legal career. She started as a Deputy District Attorney in the 4th Judicial District, prosecuting a variety of cases from misdemeanors to sex offenses. Allison then transitioned to a role as a Senior Contracts Representative at Honeywell, where she worked closely with the United States Air Force. Since 2015, Allison has exclusively practiced family law, a field she discovered to be her true passion. She brings compassion and empathy to her work, ensuring clients understand the legal process every step of the way. While she always strives...

Andrew Ross

Senior Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Fort Collins

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Andrew is a seasoned attorney with over a decade of experience in navigating complex legal challenges. He has successfully represented clients in a wide variety of cases, including consumer protection matters, breach of warranty claims against major automotive manufacturers, mass tort litigation, and disputes with oil and gas companies. Andrew's approach is to combine meticulous preparation with practical problem-solving, a strategy that has consistently led to favorable outcomes for his clients. Throughout his career, Andrew has resolved hundreds of cases in state and federal courts, as well as in binding arbitration. His dedicated work has resulted in millions of dollars in recoveries for his clients. He is committed to achieving the best possible results, drawing on his extensive experience to provide comprehensive and effective legal counsel.

Annie McHenry

Associate Attorney - Domestic Relations

Centennial

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Annie is dedicated to helping clients navigate some of life’s most challenging transitions with clarity and compassion. Her practice focuses primarily on family law, where she represents clients in divorce, allocation of parental responsibilities, post-decree disputes, guardianships, DHS finding appeals and child-related matters. Before joining Burnham Law, Annie gained extensive experience representing clients in district court on guardianship, conservatorship, and expungement cases.  From that experience, she learned to approach every case with a balance of empathy and assertiveness, understanding that family law matters are deeply personal and often contentious. Outside the office, Annie enjoys exploring Colorado’s hiking trails and discovering local thrift stores.

Barry Seidenfeld

Of Counsel - Domestic Relations

Centennial

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Barry has over 35 years of experience handling divorce, custody, parenting time, child support, maintenance, high asset property division, and post decree modification cases. Barry successfully handled the landmark case (Spahmer v. Gullette), which changed child relocation law in Colorado. The case serves as the current governing law for relocation cases in Colorado that arise as part of a divorce proceeding. Barry takes great pride in not only delivering the highest quality legal services, but also developing strong and reliable relationships with his clients. He understands how stressful it is to be involved in a divorce or family law proceeding and considers it his responsibility to take care of his clients and be their trusted advisor when resolving their legal issues.

Brandon VanTine

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Colorado Springs

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Brandon has partnered with business owners across every stage of the business lifecycle. His experience spans pre-litigation, third-party disputes, shareholder derivative actions, and business formation, as well as day-to-day advisory services. He is also a seasoned guide in complex transactions, including sales, mergers, and acquisitions. Throughout his career, Brandon has counseled clients through transactions ranging from several hundred thousand to mid-eight figures. Regardless of the deal’s scale, his objective remains steadfast: to provide a positive, measurable impact on his clients and their long-term business health. Brandon assists clients through all phases of litigation, from initial dispute resolution to mediation and arbitration. His background in transactional law provides him with a unique edge; having drafted the very contracts that often become the subject of legal disputes, he utilizes that intimate knowledge to navigate litigation effectively and help clients avoid future risks. When he is away from his practice, Brandon stays active by golfing and going to the gym. A self-proclaimed bourbon...

Brian Teed

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Centennial

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Brian Teed is a civil litigation attorney. He specializes in complex motions practice and appeals. Brian earned his Juris Doctor from Arizona State University, where he distinguished himself by interning for federal district judges and working for the United States Department of Justice in Washington, DC. He also served on the executive board of the Arizona State Law Journal and published two articles on constitutional issues. After graduating, Brian clerked on the Arizona Court of Appeals and the United States District Court for the District of Arizona. At Burnham, he has served clients with litigation and transactional needs, whether negotiating, litigating, or advising on the best path forward. Some of his successes include the defense of two six-figure judgments on appeal. From this broad experience, Brian is uniquely positioned to help clients navigate the complexities and stress of civil litigation, including appeals.

Brooke Shafranek

Associate Attorney - Domestic Relations

Centennial

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Brooke Shafranek is an experienced family law attorney with a client-focused approach to her practice. She was born and raised on Long Island, New York, and attended North Carolina State University, where she received her bachelor’s in English and graduated as valedictorian of her graduating class. Brooke attended law school at the University of Florida, where she received several awards, honors and scholarships. Brooke has been recognized as a SuperLawyers Rising Star since 2023, and brings her passion and expertise to every family law matter. Outside of work, Brooke enjoys traveling and watching live music.

Bryon Ackerman

Associate Attorney - Probate, Estate Planning, & Civil Litigation

Colorado Springs

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Bryon has more than a decade of experience in probate, trust administration, and estate planning. His probate experience includes contesting fraudulent wills and litigating terms of estate plan documents. In preparing estate plans, Bryon emphasizes helping clients pass on as much of their estates to their loved ones as possible through careful and regular review by clients. Bryon also has experience in representing landlords in evictions, contracts, commercial sales transactions, public bidding, and special taxing districts. When not serving clients, Bryon enjoys camping, off-roading, and traveling with his family.

Camille Moore

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Centennial

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Chris Crowley

Managing Partner - Civil Litigation

Centennial

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Before law school, Chris was a Television Broadcast News Reporter for NBC KOMU TV-8 and a Radio Broadcast News Reporter for NPR KBIA 91.3. During law school, Chris clerked for the General Counsel of a Major International Airline, he clerked for the Chief Judge of the Missouri Court of Appeals-Southern District, he clerked for a small civil litigation and real estate law firm in Columbia, and he was a summer intern at McDowell Rice Smith & Buchanan, P.C. in Kansas City. After law school, Chris became an Associate Attorney at McDowell Rice Smith & Buchanan, P.C.’s Country Club Plaza office eventually earning an Equity Shareholder Position. Since moving to Colorado in 2011, Chris has been a Business Operations Manager at a Denver-based multi-million dollar company, he has been a Contract Attorney for a medical device publicly-traded company, he has been a Staff Attorney at a boutique law firm providing bankruptcy legal services to consumers, and he has been the Bankruptcy...

Christopher Sutton

Senior Associate - Domestic Relations

Colorado Springs

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Christopher Sutton is an experienced litigator, focusing his current practice on a mix of Criminal Defense and Family Law. He brings over a decade of high-stakes courtroom experience to his practice, having spent nearly ten years as a District Attorney for El Paso County. During this time, he served for three years as a Special Victim's Attorney, handling complex cases including sex crimes, felony child abuse, and multiple homicides. This experience instilled in him a deep commitment to finding justice for clients and giving back to the community. Mr. Sutton's path to law began with a strong interest in the environment. After earning his B.A. in Biology from Washington and Lee University, he worked as an environmental scientist, identifying liabilities in properties. A key experience working on a Superfund site solidified his decision to pursue law. He earned his J.D. from the University of Denver (DU), where he concentrated on environmental and criminal law. Originally from Pottstown, PA, Christopher developed...

Cindy Tsuei

Associate Attorney - Domestic Relations

Colorado Springs

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Cindy graduated cum laude from The Pennsylvania State University before earning her law degree from Penn State Law. During her time in law school, she gained invaluable practical experience as a student attorney for the Penn State Family Law Clinic, where she successfully represented clients on a variety of complex family law issues. Throughout her legal career, Cindy has distinguished herself as a highly skilled Family Law strategist and a zealous litigator. Her extensive experience has given her a unique ability to navigate the complexities of family law and provide powerful advocacy for her clients. Cindy understands the profound emotional and financial strain that contentious family disputes inflict on families. She is deeply committed to being a steady, supportive force during these tumultuous times. Cindy is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of her clients; she provides individualized representation, developing unique and thoughtful strategies to help clients achieve their specific case objectives and find stability. Committed to...

Cody Watson

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Centennial

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Prior to joining Burnham, Cody began his career at a general practice law firm focusing primarily on commercial litigation, real estate litigation, real estate transactions, trusts and estates, probate, and oil and gas. Since then, he has honed his skills as an advocate with a focus on assisting his clients in navigating all stages of litigation and arbitration. Specifically, Cody has done multiple trials, arbitrations, mediations, and depositions, obtaining efficient and favorable results for his clients. As a result of this experience, Cody is keenly aware of the litigation process, and the strategic nuances that lead to success before and during trial. Cody is also an experienced corporate attorney who assists clients in business/shareholder disputes, transactions, and corporate structuring in a wide variety of industries, including construction, real estate acquisition and development, lifestyle brands, and many more. In his off time, Cody enjoys hiking, skiing, trying some of Denver’s best places to eat, and spending time with his Labrador Ollie.

Daniel Smith

Associate Attorney - Domestic Relations

Centennial

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Daniel is an experienced litigator who has solely focused on family law since 2012 and has significant experience handling complex and high-conflict cases. Daniel started practicing law at a large family law firm in Florida, where he represented hundreds of clients over the years, before moving to Colorado. He has extensive experience in virtually all areas of family law, ranging from original dissolution actions, allocation of parental responsibilities actions, relocation actions, modifications of parenting time, child support and maintenance. Daniel is a proud alum of Florida State University, where he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the state with his wife and daughter.

David Feeder

Partner - Civil Litigation

Centennial

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David is a highly experienced litigator and trial attorney focusing on commercial disputes, litigation, and arbitrations. He has been representing individuals and businesses for over three decades and is a relentless advocate and seasoned trial attorney. David has honed his skills practicing with both international firms (Shook, Hardy & Bacon, Dorsey & Whitney, and Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani), and respected local firms. He possesses extensive first-chair experience in civil trials, arbitrations, and appeals, offering clients dedicated and intense focus in a wide range of complex commercial matters. David grew up in Loveland, Colorado and attended the University of Denver's Daniels College of Business on a Boettcher Foundation Scholarship, earning a degree in Finance/Real Estate. He later received his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School, where he was a member of the prestigious Minnesota Law Review and a director of the International Moot Court. David started his legal career in Kansas City focusing on pharmaceutical products liability litigation, before...

Erin Scott

Client Development / Civil Litigation and Estate Planning

Centennial

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Erin has extensive experience representing clients in all phases of litigation in both state and federal courts, with a focus on employment litigation, business and commercial disputes, and appellate matters. She also has significant experience in estate planning and probate, advising individuals and families on preserving their legacies and guiding them through the probate process with clarity and compassion. In addition to her private practice work, Erin served as a law clerk to the Honorable Judge Jerry N. Jones of the Colorado Court of Appeals. She also previously clerked for the South Dakota Second Judicial Circuit, gaining valuable insight into the judicial process.

Faith Betz

Associate Attorney - Probate

Fort Collins

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Faith is a seasoned attorney. She has practiced law for over thirty years in the areas of trusts and estates, tort liability, litigation, and immigration. During law school, Faith interned for the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office Civil Litigation and State Services Division, as well as for a prominent law firm representing automobile manufacturers in products liability cases. After graduating, Faith served as Deputy Law Director for Knox County, Tennessee, representing the local government in education law matters, in contract disputes, and in tort cases. Faith has previously served as a guardian ad litem in Tennessee and Wyoming; and, upon moving to Colorado, she focused her practice on immigration law, family law, and elder law, prior to joining Burnham Law. In addition to her work as a planner and advocate, Faith enjoys coaching for the Greeley Youth Hockey Association, rooting for the Colorado Eagles, and hiking the trails near her Loveland home.

Jennifer Jones

Licensed Legal Paraprofessional - LLP - Domestic Relations

Fort Collins

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Jennifer brings two decades of family law paralegal experience to her role as a Licensed Legal Paraprofessional. She began her legal career as a legal assistant at a well-established New York firm specializing in foster care and adoption, where her passion for supporting families and children in vulnerable circumstances took root. After dedicating time to raise a family and complete her Bachelor of Social Work, she returned to the legal environment in 2011, working with a seasoned Colorado family law attorney and further honing her skills in domestic litigation. Jennifer is proud to be part of Colorado’s inaugural class of Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals (LLPs), a groundbreaking initiative expanding access to legal services in family law. She believes in a cooperative, client-centered approach, emphasizing clear communication, practical solutions, and compassionate advocacy. Her social work background reinforces her ability to guide clients through emotionally charged legal matters with both tenacity and empathy. Outside the office, Jennifer enjoys exploring Colorado’s backcountry trails with...

Jennifer Scott

Partner - Domestic Relations

Westminster

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Jennifer is a Partner at Burnham Law. She is an accomplished litigator with expertise in domestic relations law and is often called upon to handle complex dissolutions and post-decree matters. She received the Super Lawyers Rising Star award, a distinction that fewer than 2.5% of lawyers in the state meet. Jennifer got her start practicing criminal law as an Associate Criminal Defense Attorney and she represented clients in court throughout the state of Colorado on a daily basis. Jennifer joined Willoughby and Associates, a premier family law firm in downtown Denver, and has specialized in family law ever since. She is experienced in cases of domestic violence, restrictions and modifications of parenting time, child support, decision making, high conflict APR/dissolution cases, and both pre-decree and post-decree relocation cases. Jennifer enjoys being a source of comfort and guidance to families going through difficult times. She is sensitive to client’s needs while firmly managing their expectations. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending...

Jeremy Wooten

Partner - Domestic Relations and Criminal Defense

Colorado Springs

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Jeremy Wooten, is a seasoned trial attorney who specializes in criminal defense and family law, leveraging a wealth of experience honed over five years at the Colorado State Public Defenders’ Office. Rising to Senior Deputy Public Defender, he successfully managed a diverse caseload, including serious charges like first-degree homicide, drug distribution, and economic crimes, always maintaining an unwavering commitment to client advocacy. Licensed in both Texas and Colorado, Jeremy's legal expertise is defined by strategic planning—meticulously crafting and executing well-thought-out trial strategies—and remarkable resourcefulness in finding innovative solutions to complex legal challenges in both the criminal and family law arenas. His practice is characterized by agile, client-centered advocacy, which relies on adaptability, active listening, and quick thinking essential for effective trial work. Jeremy prioritizes thoroughly understanding his clients' objectives and adapting his strategies dynamically to the evolving nature of trials. His resilience and strategic agility allow him to confidently navigate unexpected developments in the courtroom, ensuring each case is expertly...

Joe Kinlaw

Senior Associate - Civil Practice Group

Centennial

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Julian Rosielle

Associate Attorney - Domestic Relations and Criminal Defense

Colorado Springs

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Julian Rosielle has been licensed to practice law in Colorado since 2006.  Julian is a graduate of the University of Colorado School of Law, where he was on the Dean’s List and an associate editor of the University of Colorado Law Review. Julian practiced exclusively in the area of criminal law for the first thirteen years of his career and has several notable case outcomes to include not guilty verdicts on charges of homicide and assault.  Julian has extensive trial experience, ranging from Death Penalty cases to misdemeanor domestic violence to driving under the influence. Beginning in 2019, Julian’s practice has expanded to include domestic relations litigation and civil protection orders.  Julian has lived in Colorado since 2004 and when not in Court enjoys hiking with his family and dogs.

Kaliegh Fields

Senior Associate Attorney - Domestic Relations

Colorado Springs

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Kaliegh is a dedicated family law attorney who understands that every family is unique. Whether she is helping clients reach an amicable solution or advocating in the courtroom, Kaliegh ensures that her clients understand the legal process and can make the best decisions for their families. Both a compassionate advisor and a zealous litigator, Kaliegh knows there is no “one size fits all” approach to representation. Kaliegh began her legal career as a staff attorney for the El Paso and Teller County Child Support Services Office. Kaliegh worked in private practice for several years before joining Burnham Law, navigating clients through divorces, child custody determinations, and post-decree modifications. Kaliegh brings a well-rounded approach centered on each client’s individual needs. In her free time, Kaliegh enjoys traveling, photography, reading, and spending time with her family.

Kate Novak

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation & Criminal Defense

Centennial

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Kate strives to have a client-oriented practice where she can assist her clients in all stages of litigation. Prior to joining Burnham, Kate was an associate at an AmLaw Firm where she worked on various types of complex litigation representing large corporations, municipalities, and individuals. Before going into private practice, Kate was an Assistant Public Defender in Miami-Dade County where she tried over twenty cases. Kate has been able to develop a well-rounded practice by working in both the private and public sectors. Kate has honed her skill sets from her prior experience so she can be a zealous advocate for her clients. In her spare time, Kate enjoys spending time with her husband in the outdoors, traveling, and visiting family.

Katlyn Schafer

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Centennial

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Katlyn Schafer is passionate about helping her clients navigate their legal challenges by providing clear guidance, practical solutions, and strong advocacy at every stage of the process. Her practice spans a wide range of civil matters including personal disputes, consumer protection disputes, regulatory and administrative disputes, environmental disputes, and many others. Prior to joining Burnham Law, Katlyn worked as an Associate Attorney providing representation in worker's compensation disputes. During law school, Katlyn served on the editorial board for the Vermont Journal of Environmental Law. She interned with the Idaho Office of the Attorney General and gained experience working as a student-attorney to provide pro bono legal representation to various nonprofits in the New England area. In her free time, Katlyn can be found frequenting thrift stores, exploring the Colorado wilderness, and watching scary movies with her partner James and their pets, Gracie and Koda

Kayla Banzali

Senior Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Colorado Springs

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Kayla is known for her effective legal strategies and creative solutions in resolving a wide range of disputes, including contractual issues, landlord/tenant matters, boundary disputes, and HOA conflicts. Kayla believes in understanding her clients' unique goals to secure the most beneficial results for them. Beyond her practice, Kayla is highly engaged in the legal community through volunteer board positions aimed at encouraging growth and supporting diverse voices. Her professional excellence has been consistently recognized, including being named a Top Attorney by Colorado Springs Magazine multiple times and a Super Lawyer Rising Star in 2024 and 2025. In her free time, Kayla enjoys reading, spending time with her daughter, and exploring the outdoors. She is an accomplished runner, having completed challenging races like numerous half marathons and the Pikes Peak Ascent.

Logan Losito

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Centennial

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Logan completed his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University at Albany, and recently earned his J.D. from William and Mary Law School. Before entering law school, Logan spent time working in the in-house legal department of a 3rd party commercial lending company. In this role he assisted with business development projects with clients ranging from local coffee shops to large commercial developers in New York City. Prior to joining Burnham, Logan began his legal career at a local Denver law firm primarily practicing civil litigation defense. Since joining Burnham, Logan has represented a diverse range of clientele ranging from individuals engaged in civil disputes to general commercial litigation. Logan has successfully negotiated various settlements in his clients’ favor, both prior to and after commencement of litigation, in case types such as breach of contract, property damage, negligence, partition, fraud, landlord/tenant disputes, and bad faith insurance denial. In his free time, you can find Logan on one of the...

Miguel Mondragon

Senior Associate - Domestic Relations & Criminal Defense

Fort Collins

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Miguel C. Mondragon is a tenacious and dedicated attorney who is fiercely committed to his clients and their legal outcomes. Recognizing that clients facing divorce or criminal charges are often in their most vulnerable state, Miguel acts as a passionate advocate, ensuring they have a voice within the legal system. Growing up in southern Colorado, Miguel developed a strong work ethic by working in construction, lumber, and brickyards while attending college. Before becoming an attorney, his interest in law was sparked by his work within the Larimer County Corrections system. While attending the University of South Dakota School of Law, he gained valuable experience working with East River Legal Services, the Colorado State Public Defenders Office, and Samuelson Law. Upon graduation, Miguel honed his skills first as a solo practitioner, then at Weaver & Associates, P.C., before founding Mondragon Law, where he specialized in criminal defense and family law. He brings this deep experience and tenacity to his current role...

Mikayla Shearer

Partner - Domestic Relations

Colorado Springs

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Mikayla assists clients on a variety of family law matters, such as dissolution of marriage, allocation of parental responsibilities, and child support enforcement. Mikayla began her legal career as a child support attorney for El Paso County where she helped parents obtain financial support for their children. While Mikayla has worked in private practice for a number of years, she draws on her experiences as a public child support attorney to help her current clients achieve the best possible results. Clients can expect an honest and tenacious legal advocate in Mikayla’s representation. She understands the sensitive and stressful nature of family law cases, and Mikayla will be there to guide her clients through the legal process. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and camping with her family.

Patrick Watkins

Associate Attorney - Domestic Relations

Westminster

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Patrick has experience in the areas of family law, dependency and neglect, and juvenile delinquency. His practice currently focuses on domestic relations, dependency and neglect, and family law matters. Patrick received his Juris Doctor from the University of Colorado Law School where he earned a Juvenile and Family Law Certificate for demonstrated dedication to these fields of law. While attending CU, he also clerked for the 20th Judicial District as a judicial intern and was a student attorney with the Juvenile and Family Law Clinic, assisting low-income clients with a variety of legal issues, including adoptions, divorces, and custody disputes.

Samaneh Mohebi Fard

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Centennial

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Samuel Scheurich

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Denver

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Sam focuses his practice on general litigation, transactional work—aiding small businesses and assisting in acquisitions—business litigation and breakups, and administrative work. Prior to joining the Burnham Law Firm, Sam acted as counsel at a major ski company and then in a firm setting. Sam is keenly aware of the fact that litigation can be stressful and complex. His background complements his ability to provide competent guidance and critical thinking to his clients’ cases and the corollary issues which stem from them. In his free time, Sam loves to backcountry ski, race road and mountain bikes, cook, read, play guitar, and sail.

Theresa Ferriolo

Partner - Domestic Relations

Centennial

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Theresa graduated from the University of South Florida with a BA in political science and minor in communications in 2014. She went on to graduate third in her class at Western Michigan University Law School in 2018. While in law school she clerked for a judge in the second district court of appeals in Florida. After moving to Colorado she worked for a cannabis law firm assisting cannabis business owners with licensing and compliance/regulations. She then found her passion working in domestic relations and has practiced family law exclusively ever since. Theresa handles all issues related to custody including dependency and neglect, custody disputes, allocation of parental responsibilities, guardianship, and adoptions. Theresa also has experience with high asset cases and division of complex assets. Both in and out of the courtroom, Theresa has a reputation as a strong advocate for those she represents. She is skilled at seeing the big picture, and effectively navigates clients to their best possible outcome....

Todd Burnham

Founder/Chief Innovation Officer

Boulder

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Todd Burnham is a renowned Trial Attorney, Business Strategist, Leadership Trainer, Expert Speaker, Law Firm Consultant, and Motivational Author who is consumed with helping you fully leverage your life. As a New York-trained trial attorney and Founding Partner of Colorado’s Burnham Law, Todd’s service-focused approach and strategic vision have translated into rapid growth. Now serving clients through offices in Boulder, Centennial, Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins, Westminster, and Prescott, AZ, the firm’s reputation attracts Colorado’s & Arizona's most talented and experienced litigators. Todd grew up in the South Side of Syracuse, relocating to Fayetteville, New York where he picked up lacrosse. A member of two National Champion Hobart College lacrosse teams and two-time NCAA All-American lacrosse player, he received his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Hobart College and a J.D. from Albany Law School. He is admitted to practice law in both Colorado and New York state courts, in addition to the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado and...

Zachary Graupmann

Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Centennial

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Zac focuses mainly on civil litigation, and has experience with real estate litigation, real estate transactions and estate matters. He earned his bachelor’s degree and law degree at the University of Tennessee. In law school, he was a member of the Transactions: The Tennessee Journal of Business Law and a student-attorney in the Business Clinic. In his spare time, Zac enjoys spending time with his wife and dog outdoors hiking, going to various restaurants, and being with friends. Zac is a die-hard Minnesota sports fan and Tennessee Volunteer fan.

• Understanding Estate Planning in Arizona

  Arizona estate planning involves crafting legal strategies to ensure assets are distributed according to your wishes while minimizing taxes, delays, and disputes. Core components include:

  • Wills: Specify the distribution of assets and appoint guardians for minor children.

  • Trusts: Maintain privacy, avoid probate, and manage assets for beneficiaries.

  • Powers of Attorney: Authorize trusted individuals to handle financial and legal matters.

  • Healthcare Directives: Document medical care preferences in case of incapacity.

  • Beneficiary Designations: Ensure life insurance, retirement accounts, and other assets pass to intended recipients.

  Proper estate planning in Arizona helps prevent probate complications, reduces family conflicts, and ensures that your estate is administered according to your wishes. Our attorneys guide clients through every step to ensure compliance with state law.

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  Estate Planning Services We Offer

  Wills and Testamentary Planning

  We assist clients in drafting clear, legally enforceable wills to:

  • Distribute assets according to wishes

  • Appoint personal representatives and guardians

  • Minimize ambiguity and potential disputes

  Trusts and Asset Protection

  Trusts can provide long-term control and protection over assets:

  • Revocable and irrevocable trusts

  • Special needs trusts for family members with disabilities

  • Family trusts for wealth management and legacy planning

  Powers of Attorney and Healthcare Directives

  We help clients appoint trusted individuals to:

  • Manage financial matters during incapacity

  • Make medical decisions based on your directives

  • Ensure compliance with Arizona statutory requirements

  Probate Avoidance and Tax Planning

  Our attorneys design strategies to:

  • Reduce probate involvement

  • Minimize estate and gift taxes

  • Ensure smooth transfer of assets to heirs

  Estate Administration Support

  We assist clients with:

  • Guidance for executors and trustees

  • Oversight of asset distribution

  • Ensuring proper documentation and compliance

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  How Phoenix Estate Planning Lawyers Can Help

  Estate planning can be complex and emotionally charged. Our attorneys assist by:

  • Explaining legal options and implications

  • Drafting comprehensive, customized estate planning documents

  • Coordinating with financial planners, accountants, and other professionals

  • Reviewing and updating plans as circumstances change

  • Ensuring compliance with Arizona laws and regulations

  Our goal is to create plans that protect your family, preserve assets, and provide peace of mind.

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  Special Considerations in Estate Planning

  Certain situations require additional attention:

  • Blended Families: Ensuring fair distribution among children from multiple marriages.

  • Business Owners: Planning for succession and business continuity.

  • High-Value Estates: Implementing strategies to minimize taxes and efficiently transfer wealth.

  • Special Needs Beneficiaries: Creating trusts that protect eligibility for government benefits.

  Our Phoenix estate planning attorneys develop strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.

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  Who We Serve

  Our estate planning services are available to:

  • Individuals and families seeking comprehensive planning

  • Executors, trustees, and beneficiaries

  • Business owners planning for succession

  • Clients with special needs or blended family situations

  • Seniors planning for long-term care and asset protection

  Every client receives personalized guidance tailored to their specific goals and family needs.

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  Why Choose Burnham Law for Estate Planning

  Clients choose our Phoenix estate planning attorneys because we provide:

  • Extensive experience in Arizona estate planning and probate law

  • Personalized, compassionate legal guidance

  • Strategic, results-driven planning for families and individuals

  • Clear communication and education at every step

  • Local knowledge of Phoenix-area laws and courts

  We focus on helping clients protect their loved ones and ensure their wishes are honored.

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  Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Planning in Phoenix

  Do I really need a will or trust?
  Yes. Wills and trusts clarify asset distribution, minimize disputes, and protect your family’s future.

  Can I update my estate plan later?
  Absolutely. Plans should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect life changes such as marriage, divorce, births, or deaths.

  Will estate planning avoid probate?
  Not entirely, but trusts and careful planning can reduce probate involvement and expedite asset transfer.

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  Schedule a Consultation With a Phoenix Estate Planning Lawyer

  Planning for the future is essential. A skilled Phoenix estate planning lawyer can help you protect your assets, ensure your wishes are followed, and provide peace of mind for you and your family.

  📞 Call 303.653.9497
        (303) 536-3820

• 📍 Serving Fort Collins & Northern Colorado

• 📅 Schedule a Consultation Online