For Live Oak Estate Planning founder and attorney Satkirtan McLafferty, estate planning isn’t just a legal service — it’s deeply personal.

McLafferty, who grew up in Claremont, launched her solo practice with a clear mission: to serve families who need thoughtful, customized planning, especially those caring for loved ones with disabilities or additional needs. As the parent of a child with a rare genetic syndrome, she understands firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to imagine a future where you’re no longer able to advocate for your child.

“That reality makes estate planning feel very real, very personal, and very urgent,” she said.

A key focus of her work is what she describes as the “full picture” of special needs planning. While a special needs trust is an important tool, McLafferty emphasizes that it’s only one piece of a much larger puzzle. Caregivers often wear many hats: financial manager, medical decision-maker, scheduler, advocate, chauffeur, chef, and more. If a primary caregiver is no longer able to fill those roles, someone else must step in — and without a comprehensive plan, families can quickly find themselves overwhelmed.

“I wanted to slow things down,” McLafferty said. “Many firms move people through the process quickly. I take the time to understand family dynamics, concerns, and goals so the plan actually works when it’s needed — keeping families out of court and, as much as possible, out of conflict.”

Opening her own firm also gave McLafferty something equally important: flexibility. Balancing all the roles she plays — attorney, business owner, parent, and caregiver — is one of her biggest challenges. Running a solo practice while raising young children can be demanding, she said, but what keeps her motivated is knowing her work genuinely makes a difference.

“I see the relief clients feel when they finally have a plan in place,” McLafferty said. “I know how much peace of mind that can bring. That makes the hard days worth it.”

Live Oak Estate Planning is based in Claremont’s Old School House at Foothill Boulevard and Indian Hill Road. As a solo attorney, McLafferty works directly with every client — from the first phone call to the final documents.

Education is also a central part of her practice. McLafferty regularly hosts webinars and speaks at seminars, mom’s groups, special needs organizations, and professional offices. She enjoys meeting people where they are and helping make estate planning feel less intimidating and more approachable.

The firm’s name reflects both personal history and purpose. Inspired by live oak trees and memories of her father living in Live Oak Canyon, McLafferty chose a symbol rooted in strength, resilience, and deep foundations — qualities she strives to reflect in every plan she creates.

“Estate planning isn’t really about documents; it’s about people, relationships, and peace of mind,” McLafferty said. “My hope is that families feel supported, informed, and empowered through the process, and that they walk away knowing they’ve taken an important step to protect the people they love.”

Thank you to our newsletter sponsor, Live Oak Estate Planning! Contact Sati at (909) 206-2892 or sati@liveoakestateplanning.com.