Paula M. Johnson-Gilchrist, Estate Planning Attorney in Whitefish, Montana

Paula concentrates on estate planning, family law, real estate, tax, and trusts. Each area below outlines the kind of case Paula handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Estate Planning

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• Family Law

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• Real Estate

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• Tax

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• Trusts

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• Wills

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Paula's primary office is at 6336 Highway 93 S., Whitefish, MT, 59937-8235. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new estate planning attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Paula usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Paula discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in estate planning practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Paula for a estate planning case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Paula walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Paula offer a free consultation?

  Paula charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Paula's office. Some estate planning attorneys offer free consults — check Paula's current terms during booking.

• How long do estate planning cases in Montana typically take?

  Simple estate planning matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Paula gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Paula take my case if I'm outside Whitefish?

  Paula is licensed in Montana. Matters governed by Montana law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Paula will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Paula?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Paula will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Paula accepting new estate planning clients right now?

  Paula's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.