My Story
Overview: Sean, an attorney with over a decade of experience focusing in estate planning and business law, has dedicated his career to assisting individuals and businesses in securing their financial futures and leaving lasting legacies. Known for a wealth of legal knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, and a compassionate approach, Sean has become a trusted advisor for many clients seeking comprehensive estate planning strategies and sound legal counsel for their business endeavors.
Early Life and Education: Born in Phoenix, AZ and raised in Phoenix, southwest Colorado and Maui, Hawaii, Sean exhibited exceptional academic aptitude and a natural inclination towards law from an early age, as Sean's parents were avid readers and attorneys themselves. After graduating from a top preparatory academy in Hawaii, Sean attended Arizona State University for his undergrad education, graduating with a degree in Psychology. Sean continued his educational pursuits, graduating from Arizona State University's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law with a Juris Doctorate and obtaining a Masters in Taxation (LL.M.) from Boston University's School of Law.
Legal Experience: Following his schooling, Sean embarked on a journey to deepen his understanding and experience of the law. Sean joined a prestigious law firm, Ryley, Carlock & Applewhite and began specializing in both estate planning and corporate law, where he had the opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals and gain invaluable practical experience. After experiencing "Big Law" and not enjoying the heavy billable hourly requirements and lack of personal autonomy, Sean transitioned his services to a boutique law firm, the Forakis Law Firm PLC, specializing in estate planning, asset protection and business formation and governance. After 4 years of practice at Forakis Law, Sean once again shifted his practice to a family office, Heritage Family Offices, where he quickly became the Director of HFO Law Group, the legal division of the family office. Sean expanded his professional knowledge by working with affluent clients in areas such as asset structuring, gift and estate tax minimization planning, succession planning, and charitable giving.
Finally, after more than 10 years of private practice, in 2023, Sean decided to open his own law firm, becoming the go-to expert for individuals and businesses seeking sophisticated estate planning solutions. Sean's ability to simplify complex legal concepts and provide customized strategies based on clients' unique circumstances earned him an exceptional reputation in the industry. He has successfully assisted numerous high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and families in protecting and preserving their assets, minimizing tax burdens, and ensuring seamless wealth transfer across generations.
Approach and Values: Central to Sean's legal practice is his unwavering commitment to providing personalized service and building lasting relationships with his clients. He recognizes the importance of understanding each clients' unique goals and aspirations, tailoring their legal strategies accordingly. Sean also approaches each case with empathy, guiding clients through the intricacies of estate planning and business law, ensuring their peace of mind and confidence in the decisions made.
Personal Information: When Sean is not working as an attorney, his main role is as a husband to wife Kristina and father to his young son Oak and soon-to-arrive daughter Ivy (coming November 2023). Sean enjoys any outdoor activity, including especially hiking, camping and biking. Travel and experiencing different cultures and cuisines are also very important, as Sean has visited 19 states and 21 countries over 4 continents. Sean also woodworks in his spare time and enjoys a historical biography or science fiction novel as leisure reading.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
602-847-5401