I’ve always known I wanted to be a lawyer. Growing up in New Hampshire, I pictured myself in a legal career that looked a lot like an episode of Law and Order. In college at Union College, where I majored in political science, that vision only grew stronger. When I went to Northeastern University for law school, I was set on pursuing criminal law, driven by a fascination with the field and the idea of representing people in high-stakes situations. But like many journeys, mine took a turn I hadn’t expected.
Today, I practice estate planning, real estate, and probate law. It’s a path that allows me to help clients with some of the biggest and most personal decisions of their lives, and it’s one I wouldn’t trade. Here’s how my journey led me here.
The Draw of Criminal Law—and Its Realities
In law school, I was captivated by the intellectual challenge and excitement of criminal law. I had the chance to work alongside incredible criminal law practitioners, from appellate attorneys to trial lawyers to some truly inspiring public defenders. The cases were tough, but the learning was intense and rewarding.
Yet, as I spent more time in the field, I began to see the realities beyond the cases themselves. Criminal law is challenging not only intellectually but emotionally. Many clients struggled with financial hardships and lacked the resources to afford full representation, which can be difficult when you’re committed to helping them get the best possible outcome. The truth is, while the field is incredibly impactful, the financial and personal costs for lawyers and clients alike can be steep.
I began to see that if I wanted a sustainable, fulfilling career, I might need to consider other areas of law.
An Unexpected Opportunity in Estate Planning and Real Estate
After law school, I had the opportunity to work with Mark Stiles at Stiles Law, which opened up a world of possibilities in estate planning, real estate, civil litigation, and probate. At first, it was simply a chance to broaden my skills. But as I got deeper into these areas, I realized the potential impact I could have in people’s lives through helping them secure their assets, navigate property transactions, and plan for the future.
This work showed me a side of law that went beyond the drama of courtrooms. I discovered that I loved the role of a guide—helping clients make informed decisions, preparing them for life’s big transitions, and ultimately providing them with peace of mind. It was work that combined problem-solving, empathy, and practicality.
The Real Reason I Practice Law
Being an attorney isn’t just about legal strategy for me; it’s about empowering clients to make the best choices for their future. I often tell people that I see myself as a teacher as much as a lawyer. My goal is to simplify complex legal matters and get to the heart of what matters most to each client. Whether it’s planning an estate, managing a real estate transaction, or working through probate, I love helping clients feel confident in their decisions.
One of the most humbling parts of this work is that clients trust me with deeply personal matters. They’ll open up about finances, family relationships, or fears about the future—sometimes within minutes of meeting. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly, and it’s one that makes this career incredibly fulfilling.
My Motivation: Family and Fulfillment
On a personal level, I feel fortunate that this career allows me to support my own family while helping other families plan for their futures. My wife and our four kids are a huge part of my “why,” and I’m grateful that I can provide for them by doing meaningful work that impacts others. It’s a privilege to have a career that not only supports my loved ones but also gives me the opportunity to make a difference in clients’ lives.
Closing Thoughts
Looking back, I’m grateful for every step of my journey in law. The challenges of criminal law taught me resilience, and my work in estate planning and real estate has shown me the power of proactive planning and thoughtful guidance. It’s a career I’m passionate about, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
If you’re considering your own next steps in estate planning, real estate, or even the complexities of probate, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you navigate these important choices with clarity and confidence.
