Spotlight: Matt J. McClenahan from Orchard Law
Q: Why do you enjoy working with attorney John Saunders? What makes him a good attorney in his practice area?
Matt: John has a real gift for taking complex cases with intricate details and presenting them in a way that feels approachable and easy to understand. He can take a highly technical issue and break it down into exactly what you need to know, without overwhelming you.
Q: What is your background? What led you into estate planning?
Matt: My career began in small, closely held business law, but in 2007 I transitioned into estate planning, probate, tax, and trusts. When I founded Orchard Law in 2016, my focus was on becoming a true partner to my clients—helping them navigate their estate planning while building strong, lasting relationships. For me, it’s not just about reaching specific objectives; it’s about working together and really getting to know my clients and their families. We revisit estate plans every three years, and I make it a priority to connect with the next generation before inheritances take effect. That continuity is important.
Q: How do you and John work together?
Matt: John focuses on the business side for clients, while my team handles the estate planning side. Together, we make sure everything is in sync. A typical Orchard Law client might have a small business, an investment property, or a family cabin, and by collaborating, we ensure both the business and estate planning needs are fully addressed.
Q: How can potential clients reach your team?
Matt: We have a legal assistant who manages all intake, scheduling, and next-step questions. When you call our office, you’ll talk to a real person ready to help. You can reach us at 612-293-3840 or by email at info@orchard.law.
Q: What inspired you to name your firm Orchard Law?
Matt: Estate planning is often a multi-generational process. I think of the family as the fruit of the tree, while the tree itself represents their property, small business, or cabin. Our role is to help families tend to their “orchard,” ensuring it thrives for future generations.
