Meet the Team
We are a group that loves a good checklist. Being organized is our super power. And our plans even have plans.
Estate planning is my jam. Coupling my penchant for planning and organization with the lessons learned from losing my father to a stroke while in college, I have had the humbling privilege of impacting thousands of lives since opening the doors of Starrett Law Firm in Ballantyne (2009). Estate planning-focused from day one, I can’t imagine work that is more fulfilling.
Admitted: North Carolina
Alma Mater: UNC-Chapel Hill
Fun Fact: I started Ballantyne Ball, a 501(c)(3) charity masquerade gala that has donated over $1M to local non-profits since 2015.
Favorite Pastime: Watching our daughters’ soccer and lacrosse games at AK
Family Tradition: Driving through Ardrey and checking out the lights every Christmas
Before joining Starrett Law Firm, I ran my own solo practice focusing on criminal and trial matters. I eventually transitioned into business law, which I found much more enjoyable. Guiding and protecting new and seasoned business owners from legal missteps is both a personal mission and where I offer the most value to our clients.
Admitted: North Carolina
Alma Mater: Campbell
Fun Fact: I remember everything, even conversations I had decades ago. Word for word. I used to think everyone was like this.
Favorite Pastime: Working out
Family Tradition: Focusing on financial independence—we have a generational goal of mastering smart planning so we can retire early.
Hillary Starrett
Legal Assistant
As a native Charlottean, I have loved raising a family in Ballantyne and seeing the area develop into a wonderful community. It is also immensely gratifying to help clients across my hometown gain a peace and a sense of confidence in knowing that a plan is in place to pass on not only their assets, but their legacy as well.
Alma Mater: UNC-Chapel Hill
Fun Fact: I’m a Wordle wizard; it’s something I look forward to every day!
Favorite Pastime: Traveling
Family Tradition: Stopping at McLeod Farms every summer on the way to and from the beach to get fresh summer peaches
Claire Sauter
Chief Success Officer
My background in client service and integrated marketing has been shaped by collaborations with more than 40 nonprofits and mission-driven businesses, from New York and North Carolina to Jamaica and the Greek Islands. Working across cultures and communities has deepened my understanding of the unique needs of every individual and is a perspective that I bring to our estate planning experiences, helping families in this community find clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
Alma Mater: St. John Fisher University
Fun Fact: I’m a glass-half-full traveler. Great at rerouting to a different adventure in the face of a delay or cancellation.
Favorite Pastime: Working on a house project
Family Tradition: Finding the best local ice cream spot anywhere we go. Extra sprinkles, please!
Our Mission
To empower you to care for yourself and your family through thoughtful estate planning that transforms what-ifs into what’s next.
Ballantyne’s Estate Planning
Law Firm of Choice
Voted a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite by folks like you.
“We had put off much of the nuts and bolts of estate planning for years – no excuse. Had we known how smooth and painless Allen would make the process from A-Z, we’d have done it long ago. Had good conversations with our grown kids about it all, with Allen’s guidance. Sleeping much better now!”
Leslie B.
“Allen is a fantastic estate planning attorney! He is knowledgeable, responsive, and a pleasure to work with. He and his team explained everything clearly, answered all our questions, and made the entire process simple and stress-free. My wife and I highly recommend!!”
Derrick R.
“We found Starrett Law Firm through recommendations from our neighbors and are very happy we did. Allen and his team provided excellent service with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail throughout our estate planning process. They made everything easy to understand and completed the work quickly and thoroughly. We truly appreciated the quality of their work and highly recommend them.”
Irina S.
“Highly recommend Allen’s law firm. They are detail oriented, and easy to work with. Great communication, and knowledgeable.”
James W.
“Allen was attentive and covered all our questions. Staff was very helpful as well. Would definitely recommend.”
