Susan von Herrmann

Competent estate planning, but communication could improve

I engaged Susan von Herrmann at Nutter McClennen & Fish to assist with updating my family's estate plan, including a complex trust. Her credentials are impressive, and her recognition in Trusts and Estates by Best Lawyers was a key factor in my selection. Susan’s deep knowledge, honed since her graduation from UC Berkeley Law in 1984, was evident. She provided sound, strategic advice on navigating California's probate nuances and structuring assets for my children. The final documents were thorough and professionally drafted. However, the experience was not without its frustrations. Response times to emails were often slower than expected, sometimes taking several business days. While she was clear in our meetings, some of the finer legal explanations felt rushed, leaving me to seek clarification from her paralegal later. For a straightforward matter, she is undoubtedly capable, but for clients who prioritize frequent updates and detailed walkthroughs, the administrative follow-through didn't quite match the legal expertise. She completed the work competently, but the process felt more transactional than collaborative.