Christopher Payne

Attorney/Owner

Hello, I'm Christopher D. Payne. Beyond my role as an attorney, experiencing and surviving the acute pain of unexpected loss, profoundly fuels my dedication to estate planning. My mother's passing during the pandemic, followed closely by the tragic loss of my son in a hit-and-run accident at the tender age of 20, transformed my perspective on life and highlighted the importance of preparedness. These heartbreaking events motivate me to ensure that no one else should face the future without a plan.

Surviving these personal losses, I realized the fragility of life and the crucial necessity of a well-thought-out estate plan. My personal journey through grief and the administrative maze following these losses deepened my resolve to assist others in protecting their loved ones. It illuminated the significance of having a clear, comprehensive plan that speaks for us when we no longer can, ensuring that our legacy and our loved ones' futures are secure and respected.

I now design and craft estate plans that reflect the care, love, and intention you feel for your family, bolstered by my legal expertise, enriched by decades of experience and a profound personal journey, and strengthens by the pain and grief of my own personal loss. Understanding the weight of these decisions, I approach each client with empathy, sensitivity, and a deep commitment to making the estate planning process as clear, PayneLess and straightforward as possible.

Misconceptions about estate planning abound, many of which I hope to eliminate for you. It's not solely the domain of the wealthy. Estate planning is a necessary process for anyone who wishes to leave a clear, thoughtful blueprint for their loved ones, not just the elderly or the wealthy. From young families to seasoned individuals, creating a plan that can evolve with your life and circumstances is not just prudent; it's a profound act of love and responsibility. A completed estate plan provides a fulfilling sense of security and protection of your assets and loved one’s future.

The essence of estate planning became unmistakably clear to me while navigating my own losses and legal adjustments post-divorce. A good estate plan is about ensuring that your family is cared for, your wishes are honored, and your legacy endures, irrespective of life's unpredictable turns. My mission is to demystify estate planning, making it accessible, understandable, and aligned with your wishes and values.

I extend an invitation to begin a conversation about your legacy and the protection of your loved ones. My approach blends professional acumen with genuine understanding, guiding you to create a plan that offers peace of mind and a secure future for those you cherish most.

In our conversations, I will share not just my legal expertise but my personal narrative, hoping to connect to you through shared experiences of loss, resilience, and the human desire to protect our loved ones. I aim to provide an emotionally supportive and legally sound  service that acknowledges the complexities of life, loss, and the lasting impact of our decisions.

Estate planning is an essential, empowering process for everyone. Use it to ensure that your story, values, and love endure by creating a lasting impact that extends beyond your lifetime. Let's embark on this journey together, safeguarding your legacy and ensuring your wishes are fulfilled with care, dignity, and foresight.

EDUCATION

  • University of Virginia School of Law, Juris Doctor
  • Duke University, Bachelor of Arts, History
  • Northfield Mt. Hermon School (Highschool)

EXPERIENCE

  • In 1991, Christopher began his legal career in Phoenix with the law firm Snell & Wilmer, LLLP.
  • In 1993, he started his first small business law firm in 1994 with Moore, McCoy & Payne, P.C.
  • In 2003, he started his first non-legal small business with Pass the Popcorn!, a gourmet popcorn shop with locations at Sky Harbor International Airport and in North Phoenix.
  • In, 2003, PayneLess Law grew out of Christopher’s first solo firm, Christopher D. Payne, P.C.
  • He has been admitted practice in Arizona, the District of Columbia, and many federal jurisdictions as an attorney and small firm since 1991.

LICENSES

  • State Bar of Arizona
  • District of Columbia Bar Association (Inactive)
  • District Court of Arizona
  • Ninth Circuit Court of the United States

Our Philosophy

Combining years of experience with a personal touch, we address your unique needs and concerns with utmost empathy and professionalism. Our commitment is to provide you with a clear, customized plan that reflects your values and secures your family’s future, and to make the entire process as PayneFree as possible.

Contact Us

Ready to start planning your legacy? Connect with us today to begin the journey towards a secure, well-planned future for you and your loved ones.


PayneLess Law™ Office

Monday to Friday 9 am to 6 pm

Monday to Friday 9 am to 6 pm