Heather G. Graham

Biography

Heather Graham’s natural curiosity is a quality that her clients recognize and appreciate. She cut her teeth as a lawyer in the complex world of energy and mineral law, putting together the puzzle pieces related to the division of interests for oil, gas, coal, leasehold, and surface estates, due diligence, and transactions. Building on the skills she gained as an energy lawyer, Heather continues to put the puzzle pieces together for her clients in the areas of estate planning and estate administration.

Motivated by a desire to help clients attain peace of mind, Heather takes time to get to know her clients. She understands that each person has a unique set of circumstances that should be addressed by a comprehensive estate plan that not only provides for the future with wills and trusts, but that also includes lifetime planning with powers of attorney and healthcare directives, and asset protection measures. Estate planning can be emotional, and clients know that Heather will focus on identifying and refining client objectives to create a unique plan, whether simple or complex, that will allow them to rest easy.

In addition to helping clients through the delicate nature of estate planning, Heather also helps clients navigate the complexities of estate administration. With sensitivity toward what can be an emotional and confusing time, Heather eases the burden of those clients responsible for the testate (with a will) or intestate (without a will) administration of an estate by guiding them through the probate process and assisting with the preparation and recordation of required administration documents.

Representative Experience

  • Prepared an estate plan for a client which included complicated oil and gas holdings in multiple West Virginia counties. To finalize the estate documents, a thorough multi-generational title search and affidavits of heirship were completed to correct the chain of title and protect the assets for future generations
  • Prepared trust documents to protect high-value financial, personal, and real property, including provisions to skip generations as beneficiaries
  • Advised clients on best practices related to trusts and trustee responsibilities for the maintenance, care, well-being, and education of children and grandchildren
  • Represented elderly clients in the preparation of wills, as well as medical and financial powers of attorney
  • Coordinate and negotiate with creditors during estate administration
  • Advised clients on the legal requirements regarding inherited real estate transfers during estate proceedings
  • Represented regional and national financial institutions in residential mortgage transactions and refinances, including providing closing services
  • Provided guidance on the proper use of both springing and durable powers of attorney

Licensed In

  • West Virginia

Education

  • J.D. West Virginia University College of Law
  • B.S. West Virginia University

Memberships

  • Humane Society of Harrison County, Board of Directors, Vice President

Achievements

  • CALI Excellence Award for Ethics

Related Services

Stay informed. Sign up for our mailing lists.

Stay Informed

All of our news and resources are shared electronically. Select your preferred list(s) below.(Required)