Jan 29, 2025
Michael Menninger is the Owner and an Attorney at Houck Menninger Law, a boutique firm specializing in estate planning, trust, probate, and elder law. He is certified as a specialist in estate planning, trust, and probate law by the Ohio State Bar Association. Michael’s practice focuses on helping clients develop personalized plans to manage and protect their assets. He’s also a founding member of 1st Gen Entrepreneurs and shares expertise as a speaker and educator for attorneys and CPAs.
Estate planning is often seen as a straightforward process of drafting wills and trusts, but it’s more than meets the eye. The complexities, personal connections, and nuances in ensuring a family's legacy goes beyond mere paperwork. What makes an estate planning attorney stand out in such a crowded and evolving field?
As a board-certified specialist in estate planning, Michael Menninger says the key lies in prioritizing relationships over documents. He highlights that the true art of estate planning is guiding clients through thought exercises that uncover unique needs and potential challenges. By taking on the role of counselor and educator, he fosters long-term connections that ensure plans remain relevant and adaptable over time. Michael emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and innovation, noting how he and his team obtain certifications and adapt to industry shifts to deliver exceptional service to their clients.
In this episode of 15 Minutes, Chad Franzen sits down with Michael Menninger, Owner and Attorney at Houck Menninger Law, LLC, to discuss the art of estate planning. Michael shares his approach to fostering client relationships, the rigorous process of becoming a certified specialist, and the challenges of starting his law firm. He also talks about balancing professional growth with personal fulfillment and offers advice for aspiring attorneys navigating the complexities of starting a legal practice.