Ryan Schmalzle

When I started law school in 2005, I wasn’t entirely sure what type of law I wanted to practice, but I knew I wanted to do something that truly helped people. After graduating, I began my legal career at a large firm in downtown Washington, D.C., representing major corporations and, occasionally, former congressmen turned lobbyists. It quickly became clear that this wasn’t the kind of work I had envisioned. I left the firm and transitioned to family law, advocating for individuals going through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. While I fought hard for my clients both in and out of court, I often struggled with the unpredictability of legal fees. Billing by the hour, especially at $450 per hour, left clients anxious and uncertain about their legal costs. The process was often drawn out, influenced by opposing attorneys’ tactics, making it difficult to give clients the straightforward answers they deserved.

Over the years, I expanded my practice to include personal injury law, continuing to serve those in need of strong representation. While rewarding, I knew there had to be a way to make a deeper, more lasting impact. Then, in May 2022, my father passed away, and my perspective on legal work shifted dramatically. I experienced firsthand how essential a well-crafted estate plan is and how costly and frustrating probate can be when the plan isn’t solid. My father and stepmother had paid about $3,000 for their estate plan, yet over two and a half years later, assets were still tied up in probate, and I had paid nearly $20,000 in legal fees to resolve the process. What I witnessed wasn’t just inefficiency—it was common practice, and I knew there had to be a better way.

As I navigated my father’s passing, I realized that the burden of handling estate matters should never overshadow the emotional process of grieving a loved one. This realization inspired me to shift my practice away from litigation and focus entirely on Life and Legacy Planning. I now help individuals and families create estate plans that not only protect their assets but also preserve their memories and values for generations to come. One of the most meaningful aspects of my work is helping clients create a forever memory—an audio letter to their children—ensuring that their voice and love endure beyond their lifetime.

When I made this transition, I knew I had to abandon the traditional hourly billing model that caused so much stress for my clients in the past. Now, my clients know their fees upfront, and they never have to worry about watching the clock during a conversation. My focus is on providing them with clarity and confidence in their planning, ensuring that their loved ones won’t be left with a mess when they’re gone. Instead of fighting legal battles in court, I now fight to keep my clients' families out of court and to protect their wealth, values, and legacy. What once was a practice centered on dividing assets in divorce has become one that secures assets and cherished memories for future generations. Helping families find peace of mind through proper planning is more than my job—it’s my mission.