Peace of Mind for the People You Love
When families work with me, they walk away with more than legal documents. They have clarity about their decisions, confidence in their plan, and relief knowing their loved ones will be protected.
My clients are able to:
- Make decisions without second-guessing themselves. After our work together, you’ll understand exactly why each document matters and how it protects your family. No more wondering if you’ve done enough or made the right choice.
- Talk openly about difficult topics. Estate planning brings up conversations many families avoid – about guardianship, end-of-life care, and what happens after you’re gone. I create a safe space where you can think through these decisions thoughtfully, without feeling overwhelmed.
- Sleep soundly knowing everything is handled. The weight of “I really need to get this done” lifts. Your plan is documented, legally sound, and exactly as you want it. If something unexpected happens, your family won’t have to guess what you wanted – they’ll know.
One former colleague shared: “Margaret’s attention to detail gave us complete confidence in our estate plan. She thought of things we never would have considered.”
That’s what I’m here to do – think of the details so you don’t have to worry about them.
Complex Law, Simple Explanations
After earning my law degree from the University of Georgia School of Law, I spent 12 years at Harrison & Cole Estate Planning, one of Augusta’s most established firms. As a Senior Associate, I worked with hundreds of families navigating everything from simple wills to complex trusts and blended family situations.
During that time, I learned something important: legal expertise means nothing if your clients don’t understand their options.
I watched brilliant attorneys use complicated legal terms that left clients confused and hesitant. When I opened Sterling Legal Advisors, I made a promise to myself: every client would understand every document they signed, and why it mattered.
I don’t hand you a stack of papers and send you on your way. I walk you through each decision, explain your options in plain language, and answer every question – even the ones you think might sound basic. (Spoiler: they’re not basic. They’re important.)
You’ll leave our meetings understanding not just what you’re signing, but why it protects your family.
A Practice Built on What Matters Most
For over a decade, I worked at one of Augusta’s leading estate planning firms. I loved the work, but I saw families who needed more time, more attention, and more personal care than a large firm structure could provide.
I watched parents struggle with guardianship decisions, worry about blended family dynamics, and lose sleep over whether they’d protected their children’s futures. These weren’t just cases to manage – they were families at crossroads, needing guidance through some of life’s most important decisions.
When I opened Sterling Legal Advisors, I built my practice around what those families needed: unhurried consultations, thoughtful guidance, and an attorney who would know their names and their stories.
I wanted to create a space where estate planning felt less like a legal transaction and more like a conversation with someone who genuinely cares about protecting what you’ve built and the people you love.
Education & Credentials
- J.D., University of Georgia School of Law
- B.A., Agnes Scott College
- Licensed to practice law in Georgia
- Member, State Bar of Georgia
- 12+ years specializing in estate planning
- Former Senior Associate, Harrison & Cole Estate Planning
My Approach to Estate Planning
Every family deserves a personalized plan. I don’t use templates or one-size-fits-all documents. Your family is unique, and your estate plan should be too.
Good planning means asking the right questions. I take time to understand your concerns, your family dynamics, and your goals before recommending any solutions. Sometimes the best answer isn’t the most common one.
You shouldn’t have to become a legal expert. My job is to translate complex law into clear decisions. You focus on what matters to your family – I’ll handle making sure it’s legally sound.
Peace of mind is priceless. The relief that comes from knowing your family is protected, your wishes are documented, and everything is in order? That’s worth every minute we spend getting it right.
When I’m not helping families plan for their futures…
You’ll find me trying new recipes (with varying degrees of success), reading mystery novels, or hiking the trails around Phinizy Swamp with my husband and our very enthusiastic rescue dog, Bailey.
I’m also slightly obsessed with well-organized filing systems – which, given my profession, is probably a good thing.
Ready to Protect Your Family’s Future?
Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let’s start with a conversation about what matters most to you and your family.
Schedule a consultation, and we’ll discuss your situation, your concerns, and the best path forward. Most families tell me they wish they’d done this sooner – and they’re relieved at how straightforward the process can be.
Or call me directly at (706) 555-0147
Email: [email protected]