Trusts & Estates honoree profile Kelly L. Odorisi

Listen to this article

Kelly L. Odorisi

Partner, Trevett Cristo

Years in current role: 2

What has been your biggest success over the past year?

Being asked by the court to serve as administrator of a highly complex estate which has enabled me to utilize so many different aspects of my experience as a trusts and estates attorney.

What advice would you give someone starting a trusts and estates practice right now?

I would advise new trusts and estates attorneys to leave their ego at the door. Having practiced in this area for almost 25 years, I’ve realized that estate planning is much more than drafting documents and isn’t always deemed the most glamorous area of law. It’s imperative to remember they are assisting clients with planning for or dealing with loss or death (their own or a loved one), incapacity, family issues, personal belongings, etc. which requires a great deal of patience and empathy. Be honest about the work that suits them which will lead to a much more fulfilling practice.

What is one personal goal you have for the next year?

To utilize my certified life coaching skills to assist my clients on a more expansive level in dealing with a variety of different issues pertaining to trust and estate matters.