Gerten, Tamara J

For individuals and families in the Twin Cities northeast metro area seeking reliable and ethically sound legal guidance, Tamara J. Gerten stands as a prominent and respected attorney within the "Nearby Lawyers" category. As a key attorney at Gerten and Van Valkenburg P.A., Ms. Gerten brings extensive experience and a client-focused approach to a variety of complex legal matters. This detailed introduction will objectively present information about her practice environment, the comprehensive services she offers, her distinguishing professional features, and any available promotional information, all based on publicly accessible internet resources.

Tamara J. Gerten practices at Gerten and Van Valkenburg P.A., a firm established over 40 years ago with a clear purpose: to provide high-quality legal services to clients in the Twin Cities northeast metro area. The firm's office is located at 303 East Little Canada Road, Saint Paul, MN 55117. This location is easily accessible for local users seeking legal assistance in St. Paul and its surrounding communities. While specific visual details of the office interior are not extensively publicized, a firm with such a long-standing history and commitment to high ethical standards would typically maintain a professional, welcoming, and confidential environment. This implies well-organized reception areas, private consultation rooms conducive to sensitive discussions, and a general atmosphere that instills confidence and trust. The firm prides itself on its ethical standards, suggesting a transparent and respectful setting where clients feel comfortable discussing their personal and often complex legal concerns. The local focus of the firm, serving the "northeast metro area," positions Ms. Gerten and her colleagues as truly "nearby lawyers" who understand the specific needs and dynamics of the community they serve.

Tamara J. Gerten's legal practice encompasses several critical areas, reflecting a diverse skill set aimed at addressing the varied needs of individuals, families, and small businesses. The primary services offered by Gerten and Van Valkenburg P.A., with Ms. Gerten's expertise, include:

• Estate Planning: This is a core area of Ms. Gerten's practice. She assists clients in developing comprehensive estate plans to protect their assets and ensure their wishes are honored. This includes drafting essential documents such as Wills and Trusts, Living Wills, Power of Attorney designations, and Health Care Directives. She also helps with wealth preservation strategies, Transfer on Death Deeds, and even specialized matters like Pet Trusts. The firm's emphasis here is on creating personalized documents to meet individual client goals, steering clear of generic forms that can lead to costly mistakes.

• Probate Law: Ms. Gerten guides clients through the complex probate process, which involves the legal administration of an estate after a person's death. This includes navigating estate administration, the appointment of a personal representative, handling fiduciary and estate tax returns, and addressing various post-mortem legal requirements. Her expertise ensures a smoother and more efficient process during what is often a difficult time for families.

• Elder Law: This specialized area focuses on the legal needs of senior citizens and their families. Ms. Gerten assists with planning for incapacity, guardianships, and conservatorships, ensuring that seniors' legal and financial affairs are managed effectively as they age. This involves understanding the legal framework surrounding long-term care, healthcare decisions, and financial management for incapacitated individuals.

• Family Law: Ms. Gerten is also involved in family law matters. While the specific types of family law cases she handles are not exhaustively detailed, common areas within the firm's practice include Divorce proceedings, Mediation/Alternative Dispute Resolution, Child Support and Spousal Support issues, Property Division (including business ownership in divorce cases), Grandparent Custody, and Prenuptial Agreements. Her involvement suggests a compassionate yet effective approach to sensitive family matters.

• Real Estate Law: Ms. Gerten provides legal assistance with various real estate concerns. This includes the Purchase and Sale of Commercial and Residential Properties, Title Review and Closings, resolving Boundary Line Issues and Disputes, Landlord/Tenant matters (including evictions), and Contract for Deed arrangements. Her involvement ensures that real estate transactions are legally sound and that disputes are handled effectively.

• Small Business Concerns: For local entrepreneurs and business owners, Ms. Gerten offers legal support related to small business matters. This can include the formation of Corporations and LLCs, assisting with the Purchase and Sale of a Business, and drafting or reviewing Governing Documents. Her aim is to help small businesses operate smoothly and avoid potential legal pitfalls.

The distinguishing features of Tamara J. Gerten's practice, and that of Gerten and Van Valkenburg P.A. as a whole, are rooted in their extensive experience, client-centric approach, and commitment to ethical practice. Ms. Gerten became licensed to practice law in Minnesota in 1988, which means she brings over three decades of legal experience to her clients. This long tenure signifies a deep understanding of the law and a well-honed ability to navigate complex legal landscapes. She has been recognized for her professional achievements, having been selected to "Super Lawyers" in 2000 and 2002 for Estate Planning & Probate, Elder Law, and Real Estate. The "Super Lawyers" designation is a testament to her being a top-rated attorney, as recognized by her peers through a rigorous selection process that combines peer nominations, independent research, and peer evaluations. This accolade reinforces her expertise and reputation within the legal community. The firm prides itself on "possessing high ethical standards," a crucial feature for clients seeking trustworthy legal counsel. They work collaboratively with clients to develop "personalized documents" and achieve the "most effective resolution," indicating a tailored approach rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. Ms. Gerten is also actively involved in the local community, having served as a board member for several non-profit organizations and showing long-term support for the Girl Scouts. Her involvement in community and church leadership roles speaks to her commitment to service beyond her legal practice, adding a layer of trustworthiness and community integration. In her personal life, Ms. Gerten enjoys outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and skiing, suggesting a balanced and well-rounded individual.

Regarding promotional information, Gerten and Van Valkenburg P.A. and Tamara J. Gerten primarily promote their services through emphasizing their experience, comprehensive offerings, and client-focused methodology. While there aren't explicit "sales" or discount offers typically associated with legal services of this nature, their promotional strategy highlights the value they provide. Key promotional elements include:

• Emphasis on Experience and Longevity: The firm's messaging often highlights its "over 40 years" of service and Ms. Gerten's extensive legal career since 1988, underscoring their stability, knowledge, and track record.

• Focus on "High-Quality Legal Services": The core purpose of the firm is stated as providing high-quality services, which is a direct appeal to clients seeking reliable and effective legal assistance.

• Personalized Solutions: They emphasize the development of "personalized documents to meet their goals," differentiating themselves from generic online legal templates and promoting the value of tailored advice.

• Warnings Against DIY Mistakes: The firm explicitly cautions against the "lure of inexpensive forms and templates" that can result in "costly mistakes or unintended consequences," subtly promoting the necessity and value of professional legal guidance.

• Direct Contact Information: The firm provides easy access to their contact details, including their phone number (651) 484-7000 and physical address, inviting potential clients to reach out directly.

• Attorney Profiles and Recognition: Ms. Gerten's profile, highlighting her "Super Lawyers" selections and practice areas, serves as a significant promotional tool, validating her expertise through external recognition.

• Community Involvement: Her active participation in local non-profits and community organizations, while not a direct legal service, indirectly promotes her and the firm's standing as a responsible and engaged part of the local community.

In summary, for local users in the Twin Cities northeast metro area seeking legal services within the "Nearby Lawyers" category, Tamara J. Gerten at Gerten and Van Valkenburg P.A. offers a compelling option. Her practice operates within a professional and ethically driven environment, providing specialized services in critical areas such as estate planning, probate, elder law, family law, real estate, and small business concerns. Her distinguishing features include over three decades of experience, "Super Lawyers" recognition, and a strong commitment to personalized, ethical, and effective client representation. The firm's promotional efforts consistently emphasize their quality, experience, and the importance of professional legal guidance, making Ms. Gerten a well-regarded choice for a wide range of legal needs.