Why I Started an ABS Law Firm: A New Model for Arizona Probate

Probate Problems and Practical Solutions

Episode Summary

In this debut episode, Carly shares the story behind launching Copper Ren Law—the first woman-owned ABS law firm in the U.S. She talks about her journey from a paralegal at the State of Arizona to becoming a law firm owner, why she chose the Alternative Business Structure model, and how she’s changing the way probate and guardianship services are delivered in Arizona. Carly also opens up about the lessons learned in her first few years of business and her mission to bring a client-first, human approach to legal services.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• What an Alternative Business Structure (ABS) law firm is and why Arizona pioneered it.
  
• Why Carly decided to start her own firm and what makes Copper Ren different.
  
• The challenges of launching a law firm as a non-lawyer owner.
  
• How Carly and her team structure client care, communication, and collaboration.
  
• The types of cases Copper Ren handles and why the firm focuses on accessibility.
  
• Why client experience and empathy are at the core of her business model.

Key Timestamps

00:00 – How Carly got started in the legal field
02:30 – Discovering Arizona’s ABS program and taking the leap to start Copper Ren
04:40 – Lessons learned in the first year of running a law firm
06:30 – Building systems, hiring the right people, and improving client intake
08:00 – The value of reminder systems and client communication
09:30 – How Copper Ren manages collaboration between team members
11:00 – The type of clients Copper Ren serves and why accessibility matters
13:00 – Why Carly chose not to offer estate planning services
14:00 – What makes ABS firms different and how Carly brings customer service into law

About the Show

Probate Problems and Practical Solutions is a podcast from Copper Ren Law that helps Arizona families navigate probate, guardianship, and conservatorship with confidence. Hosted by firm founder Carly Whiteside, the show breaks down complex legal topics into practical, plain-English guidance. Each episode shares real-world insights, helpful checklists, and compassionate strategies for managing life’s toughest transitions. Whether you’re planning ahead or already in the middle of a probate case, this show gives you the clarity and confidence to move forward.