Attorney Kristen McGuire is a member of Stock and Leader's Estates Group focusing her practice in the areas of estate planning, estate administration, elder law and fiduciary planning. She assists with preparation of estate planning documents including wills, general durable powers of attorney, trusts and health care powers of attorney.

Earning a B.A. in Political Science, the Erie native graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh in 2013 and went on to receive her Juris Doctorate from the Dickinson School of Law of the Pennsylvania State University in 2017.

Kristen is no stranger to pro bono work, this year coordinating the 13th Wills for Heroes event after regularly volunteering her time in years past. Kristen also serves as a member of the Board of Directors for both the Margaret E. Moul Home and York County SPCA and as the current Chair of the York County Estate Planning Council Steering Committee.

MORE ABOUT KRISTEN:

What made you decide to coordinate Wills for Heroes this year and what did you enjoy most? At Stock and Leader, I work almost exclusively within the estates practice group and work closely with my mentor, Mac Brillhart. With the help of the Young Lawyers Section, Mac started the Wills for Heroes program in York County in 2010. I have volunteered with the program since joining the firm in 2017, so it was an easy decision to accept the coordinator role. The program provides a unique opportunity for us, as lawyers, to give back to those who have given so much to the community through their own acts of service, whether as a veteran, first responder or firefighter. I always look forward to meeting the heroes, hearing their stories, and spending time with the other volunteers between appointments.

What advice do you have for staying connected with others in the legal community?
I think it comes down to making the effort to show up. Whether it’s joining the relevant practice group section of the Bar Association, attending socials and happy hours, or volunteering at events like Wills for Heroes, there are many opportunities to familiarize yourself with other practitioners.

What is your favorite movie? I don’t know that I can choose any one movie, but I am often drawn to the drama/thriller genre.What would someone be surprised to know about you? My most-watched television show is probably Jeopardy—useless knowledge is one of my strong suits. 

What is your favorite memory so far as an attorney? Professionally, I’ve had some great moments with appreciative clients, but my favorite memories as a lawyer generally surround the colleagues within my firm—whether it’s attending a conference in Philadelphia with my practice group or a float hosted by a partner—for me, being a lawyer introduced me to the firm setting and I have gained a lot, both personally and professionally, from those relationships.