Starting Your Own Estate Planning Firm

If you've ever dreamt of hanging your own shingle in the estate planning world, you and I have something in common. I remember those early days like it was yesterday – the excitement, the late nights, the sheer hustle of trying to build something from the ground up.

Look, starting an estate planning firm can feel like a relentless grind. You're wearing all the hats, constantly chasing clients, and probably wondering when you'll ever catch a break. I get it. I was there. I built my own practice from scratch, brick by painstaking brick. But here's the good news: it doesn't have to stay that way.

Fast forward to today, and Oath Law isn't just surviving – it's thriving as a national firm, helping thousands of families every year. And the real kicker? We've built it in a way that it doesn't demand every waking hour of my life anymore. It’s become a well-oiled machine that, frankly, works for us.

So, if you're itching to start your own firm, whether you're just sketching out your business plan on a napkin or you're a seasoned attorney ready for a new level of independence, I want to share some advice from someone who's been in the trenches and come out the other side.

1. Nail Your Vision

Before you dive into the nitty-gritty, get crystal clear on your vision. What kind of firm do you want to build? What makes you different? 

For us at Oath, it was about making estate planning less intimidating and more accessible by defeating procrastination. That idea drove everything we did in the beginning, from how we talked to clients to the tools we eventually built, like Zephyr. Figure out your "why" – the thing that gets you genuinely excited – and let that be your North Star.

2. Think "Client First," Not "Legalese First":

Estate planning can sound like a foreign language to most people. Your success will depend on your ability to connect with clients, understand their fears and goals, and explain complex concepts in a way that actually makes sense.

We learned early on that jargon just creates distance. Focus on building trust and rapport. Show them you're listening. This client-first mentality isn't just good for relationships; it's good for business. Clients who feel understood are more likely to become long-term clients and refer others. This is exactly why we focused on tools within Zephyr Vision to bridge that communication gap.

3. Don't Be a One-Person Island Forever:

Look, in the beginning, you'll probably be doing everything. But if you want to scale and actually build a firm that doesn't chain you to your desk, you need to think about systems, hiring, and technology early on.

For me, this was a game-changer. I realized that relying on manual processes was a recipe for burnout and stagnation. That's a big part of why my team and I developed Zephyr. It wasn't just about making things faster; it was about building a foundation for sustainable growth. Think about what tasks you can automate or streamline from day one. It'll save you headaches down the road.

Building a firm that works for you means you can't be the only engine driving it. As you grow, bringing on the right people is absolutely crucial. Don't just look for warm bodies; seek out individuals who align with your vision and are eager to grow with you. Think about the roles that will free up your time and allow you to focus on higher-level strategy and client relationships. Hiring the right team isn't just about adding manpower; it's about building a collective brainpower and creating a sustainable structure for the future.

4. Your Network is Your Net Worth (Seriously):

Don't underestimate the power of connections. Build relationships with other professionals, attend industry events (even the virtual ones!), and get involved in your community. These connections can lead to referrals, partnerships, and invaluable advice.

Oath didn't grow in a vacuum. Our network has played a crucial role in our journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and offer support to others in the field.

5. Be Ready to Roll with the Punches (and Learn Fast):

Starting a business is rarely a straight line to success. There will be challenges, setbacks, and moments when you question everything. The key is to be resilient, learn from your mistakes, and keep moving forward.

My journey with Oath had its share of twists and turns. But the willingness to adapt, to listen to feedback, and to constantly seek better ways of doing things is what ultimately propelled us forward.

So, if you're serious about starting your own estate planning firm and building something that truly works for you, know that it's absolutely achievable. It takes hard work, a clear vision, and a willingness to learn and adapt. But trust me, the freedom and fulfillment of building something meaningful on your own terms? It's absolutely worth it.

Ready to take that first step? Let's build your formula for success.