Our Services

ESTATE PLANNING

Estate planning is the process of preparing for the distribution of your assets after your death, ensuring that your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for. It involves creating legal documents such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, which outline how your property, finances, and healthcare decisions will be managed. By engaging in estate planning, individuals can minimize taxes, avoid probate, and prevent family disputes. It also provides peace of mind, knowing that your legacy will be carried out according to your desires, and that those who depend on you will have a clear plan for their future.

TRUST / WILLS

Trusts and wills are essential legal tools for managing and distributing a person's assets after their death. A will is a document that outlines how a person wishes their estate to be divided among beneficiaries, and it typically appoints an executor to oversee the process. However, a will goes into effect only after probate, which can be a lengthy and costly process. A trust, on the other hand, allows assets to be managed and distributed without the need for probate, providing greater privacy and often faster access to funds for beneficiaries. Trusts are also useful for individuals who want to establish more control over how and when their assets are distributed, such as for minors or beneficiaries with special needs. In combination, trusts and wills can provide a comprehensive estate plan that ensures a person's wishes are honored while minimizing the potential for legal disputes.

Guardianship / Probate

Guardianship and probate are two important legal processes that often intersect when managing a person’s estate. Guardianship refers to the legal authority granted to an individual (a guardian) to care for and make decisions on behalf of a minor or an incapacitated adult, such as in cases where someone is unable to manage their own personal or financial affairs. This is especially relevant when the person is without a valid will or trust in place. Probate, on the other hand, is the legal process that takes place after someone's death to validate their will, pay debts, and distribute assets to the beneficiaries. If a person with children or dependents passes away without a will, the probate court may also play a role in appointing a guardian for any minor children. Both guardianship and probate can be lengthy and complex procedures, and navigating them often requires careful legal planning to ensure that the wishes of the deceased are respected, and that the best interests of minors or vulnerable adults are protected.

About Us

At the Law office of David Hartwell, we provide compassionate, expert legal services in the areas of estate planning, trusts and wills, guardianship, and probate. With a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding the distribution of assets and the care of loved ones, our mission is to help clients navigate these sensitive matters with clarity and confidence. Whether you are looking to create a comprehensive estate plan, establish a trust to protect your legacy, or need assistance with guardianship or probate matters, we offer tailored solutions to meet your unique needs. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring your wishes are honored and your family’s future is secure, offering guidance every step of the way.

Meet The Team

  • David Hartwell

    Attorney

  • Brayden Story

    Legal Assistant

  • Chole Kane

    Secretary

  • Finley

    Boss Dog

David P. Hartwell was born and raised in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He attended Oklahoma City University, graduating with a Bachelors of Science in Business, majoring in Accounting, in 1987. David graduated from the Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1990. David is admitted to practice before all Oklahoma state courts, the U. S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma and the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. His practice concentrates in the areas of estate planning and transactional matters.

Paul Boyd

IN REMEMBRANCE

Paul Boyd served as Legal Assistant at our office for 27 years. Beloved by clients, Paul always had a big smile on his face and a warm, caring heart. He was the go-to person to get things done around here, and done right. He was also the “everything person” for David; a best friend who was always there when needed.

We lost Paul in June, 2024. His absence is felt by us every single day, and has created a huge hole in our hearts that will never be truly healed. We love you Paul, and miss you terribly.

Visit us

By Appointment Only

1217 Sovereign Row. Suite 105

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73108

(405)942-0212

Hours Of Operation

Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm