Joy M. Eckelkamp

Joy M. Eckelkamp’s practice focuses on elder law, estate planning, special needs planning, guardianship, probate, trust administration, and fiduciary representation. She is a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) with the National Elder Law Foundation and has been recognized with the Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Peer-Reviewed rating for excellence in legal practice. While attending South Texas College of Law Joy was awarded the Inaugural Lyndon B. Johnson Civil Rights Award. Joy is a Super Lawyer and was awarded Best Lawyers in America, as well as Best Lawyers - Women in Law. Prior to founding Bentley & Eckelkamp, PLLC, Joy was a Shareholder at a local estates and trust firm and also a Trust Officer at a national bank administering trusts, including special needs trusts.

Joy is a graduate of Austin College, located in Sherman, Texas, home to the mighty Kangaroos. She is a native Houstonian, has four children, and enjoys traveling and all things outdoors. Joy has a close connection to Guatemala where two of her children started life and visits often, serving the home country that allowed her family to grow.She is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) and has served as an officer and board member of the NAELA Texas Chapter.

Joy is passionate about simplifying the legal process and helping families make informed choices with confidence. She believes that estate planning isn’t just about documents—it’s about peace of mind, ensuring that clients feel confident and well-informed about their options.