I'm Joan-Claire Gilbert, founder of Willamette Heritage Counsel. I believe estate planning is one of the most important ways we can care for the people we love.
It's about more than legal documents or passing on financial assets. It's about making thoughtful decisions today that can bring clarity, comfort, and peace of mind to the people who matter most to us.
A Personal Experience That Deepened My Purpose
When I lost my mother, I learned firsthand just how important thoughtful estate planning can be for the people left behind.
My mother had a sophisticated estate plan in place. But despite that planning, significant assets had not been properly coordinated with her plan. My father and I, with help from his estate planning attorney, spent considerable time and effort working through the process of transferring those assets to him. It was frustrating and time-consuming, especially at a time when my father was deeply grieving the loss of his wife.
That experience stayed with me. Even with my legal background, I hadn't fully appreciated how important it is to make sure that assets are properly funded and coordinated with an estate plan—not just that the legal documents are carefully prepared.
It reinforced something I believe deeply:
Estate planning isn't just about what happens to our assets. It's about what happens to the people we love.
I want the families I serve to spend less time navigating unnecessary complications and more time caring for one another.
Why I Built My Practice Differently
I founded Willamette Heritage Counsel to offer a more personal, relationship-centered approach to estate planning.
Clear, predictable fees.
I offer flat-fee arrangements for foundational estate planning, so you
understand the cost before moving forward. I want you to feel
comfortable asking questions without worrying that every conversation
will increase your bill.
A personal relationship with your attorney.
When you work with my firm, you work directly with me. I'll take the
time to listen, understand your concerns, and help you make decisions
that feel right for your family.
A plan that works when your family needs it.
Estate planning doesn't end when documents are signed. Coordinating
assets, reviewing beneficiary designations, and making sure loved ones
know what to do are important parts of the process. I emphasize
practical implementation and offer optional ongoing support through
FamilyCare.
A legacy that goes beyond money.
Your family's greatest treasures may not be financial. They're also
the values you've lived by, the stories you've shared, and the love
and wisdom you hope to pass along. I want your estate plan to reflect
what matters most to you.
A Little About Me
I earned my undergraduate degree in economics from Princeton University and my law degree from the University of Notre Dame.
My professional journey has included practicing law in Portland and working in leadership development and coaching.
I am a member of the Oregon State Bar's Estate Planning and Administration Section, which provides opportunities for continuing legal education and collaboration with estate planning attorneys throughout Oregon.
As a mother of three, I understand how deeply personal decisions about family and the future can be.
And through my work helping people become more effective leaders and communicators, I've come to appreciate just how much thoughtful listening, honest conversations, and strong relationships can change our lives.
I bring all of those experiences—and my heart—to the families I serve.
Let's Begin a Conversation
You don't need to have all the answers before we meet. Whether you're creating your first estate plan or revisiting one you've had for years, I'd be honored to learn about your family, your hopes, and what matters most to you.
Together, we can create a plan that reflects your wishes and helps care for the people you love.