law // ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE

A MARK BREGMAN Partner // Dyer Bregman & Ferris // dbfazlaw.com Bregman was a lead probate attorney in landmark probate litigation that established in Arizona the enforceability of a living trust as a contract. He was also the lawyer responsible for the decision approving pre-bankruptcy disclaimer planning that has nationwide significance and has litigated the limits of protective trusts. As a frequent lecturer, facilitator, bar association leader and volunteer, he contributes to the fabric of the Phoenix legal and charitable communities. He is past president of the Scottsdale Bar Association, a former judge pro-tempore for the Maricopa County Superior Courts and has been a volunteer softball coach, mock trial coach for Saguaro High School and alternate committee member of the State Bar discipline committee.

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B WILLIAM CLARKE Chair, Estate Planning and Probate Department Jennings, Strouss & Salmon // jsslaw.com Clarke has provided counsel to clients for more than 35 years. He advises Arizona individuals and family-owned businesses on estate planning, probate administration, business succession, corporate and real estate transactions. Clarke also represents clients in contested probate matters, including assisting surviving spouses and heirs in estate disputes with family members over the allocation and distribution of assets. He also serves as counsel to numerous clients seeking guardianships and conservatorships. Professional advice: “Have a plan to develop your own clientele. Being an attorney isn’t just about practicing law. It’s a business and you need to consider how you will build your practice and manage your clientele. As an attorney, the only security that you have is your personal clientele.”

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C ALISA GRAY Shareholder // Tiffany & Bosco // tblaw.com Gray’s practice emphasizes probate and trust litigation and mediation, and elder law such as guardianships and conservatorships for incapacitated persons. She serves as an expert witness in fiduciary matters. Gray is a frequent speaker at events, including providing instruction on reducing stress in the workplace. Personal strengths: “Perseverance, commitment to prompt and frank communication, and an emphasis on problem-solving rather than simply litigating every dispute.” Industry outlook: “The industry of probate and elder law practice continues to be strong and I don’t see that changing. People are living longer than ever imagined, requiring flexible and creative approaches to managing resources, as well as creating more awareness of the challenges associated with aging in our modern society.”

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D STEVEN JACKSON Owner // Steven M. Jackson Law Group // jacksonlawgroupaz.com Jackson is an estate planning and probate litigation attorney who prides himself on listening to clients to gain the necessary information with which to create options. Jackson’s approach to estate planning is to guide clients through possibilities while the client makes decisions. Personal strengths: “The personal qualities that helped me to become successful are patience and inquisitiveness. Patience is key when listening or guiding clients in making tough decisions that will impact their livelihoods and families. Inquisitiveness drives me to learn and explore alternative options that help in providing value for clients.” Industry outlook: “The population continues to grow in the state and it continues to be a place for people to retire. I don’t see any signs of a slowdown in the near future.”

E HOPE LEIBSOHN Estate planning attorney // Sherman & Howard // shermanhoward.com Leibsohn assists clients in developing customized legacy plans so that the inheritance they leave behind for family, friends, and charities reflect not only their tax planning objectives, but also their core life values. Leibsohn says she has the privilege of working with distinguished individuals who are seeking to create a meaningful impact as part of their overall legacy plan. Personal strengths: “First and foremost, I listen. I meet my clients where they are at based on their unique world views and objectives. My attention to detail and natural curiosity combine together in my role as teacher and as scrivener. Enthusiasm and optimism are core traits of mine.” Prized possession: “I cherish my passport, as it allows me to travel with my husband to experience worldwide arts and culture.” 108 ABL | Nominate at azBIGmedia.com