Christopher T. Stanton, Real Estate Attorney

Christopher T. Stanton

Partner | Attorney

Meet Christopher T. Stanton

Christopher T. Stanton is a Partner at Klemp and Stanton, where he focuses his practice on estate planning, helping individuals and families protect their assets, plan for the future, and ensure their wishes are carried out with clarity and confidence. With decades of experience, Christopher works with clients across a wide range of financial situations, from those just beginning to plan to individuals and families with substantial estates requiring more advanced strategies. 

Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, and Asset Protection 

Christopher’s practice is dedicated almost entirely to estate planning, including the preparation and implementation of wills, trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and advanced estate planning strategies. He has extensive experience designing plans that incorporate charitable giving, family wealth transfer, and long-term asset preservation. 

Working closely with financial advisors and other professionals, Christopher helps ensure that each client’s estate plan aligns with their broader financial goals. His collaborative approach has led to long-standing relationships with referral partners who trust him to provide thoughtful, reliable guidance to their clients.  

Working with Individuals and Families at Every Stage 

Christopher works with a diverse client base, from individuals with modest estates to high-net-worth families with complex planning needs. He believes estate planning is essential for everyone, regardless of the size of their estate, and takes pride in making the process accessible and approachable. 

Whether a client is creating a simple will or developing a comprehensive trust-based plan, Christopher focuses on helping them understand their options and make informed decisions about what is right for their situation.  

A Clear, Practical, and Client-Focused Approach 

Christopher is known for his ability to explain estate planning concepts in a clear, straightforward way. Using practical examples and analogies, he helps clients understand the differences between wills and trusts, the purpose of each document, and how their plan will work in real life. 

He approaches each matter with the goal of making the process as simple and stress-free as possible. Initial consultations are designed to be informative and low-pressure, giving clients the opportunity to understand their options before making any decisions. Christopher also offers predictable, flat-fee pricing so clients know what to expect from the outset. 

Clients appreciate his responsiveness, efficiency, and commitment to completing their estate plans in a timely manner, often within a matter of weeks once the necessary information is provided.  

Building a Practice Through Trust and Relationships 

Christopher began his legal career by building his practice from the ground up, developing relationships with financial advisors and earning referrals through consistent, reliable service. Over time, this approach has resulted in a large and loyal client base built on trust and positive client experiences. 

In addition to his client work, Christopher is a frequent speaker on estate planning topics. He regularly presents at financial planning seminars, corporate events, and community education programs, helping individuals better understand the importance of estate planning and how to get started. 

Background and Personal Interests 

Christopher resides in Stillwater, Minnesota with his spouse, Deniz. He enjoys spending time with his family, including his children and grandchildren, and values creating a home environment where family can gather and spend time together. Outside of work, he enjoys golfing and staying active. 

Education

Mitchell Hamline School of Law 
Juris Doctor 

Saint John’s University 
B.S., Political Science 
Minor in Business Administration 

Bar Admissions
  • Minnesota
Associations & Memberships
  • Minnesota State Bar Association  
  • Dakota County Bar Association  

News + Insights

What Is Probate in Minnesota?

What Is Probate in Minnesota?

Probate has a reputation for being complicated. In reality, it's simply the legal process for settling someone's estate.  If you've recently lost a loved one, you've probably heard the word "probate" more than once. Friends, family members, and even the internet often...

LLC vs. Corporation: Choosing the Right Business Entity in Minnesota

LLC vs. Corporation: Choosing the Right Business Entity in Minnesota

One of the first decisions you'll make as a business owner is also one of the most important.  Starting a business is exciting, but before you can hire employees, sign contracts, or open a business bank account, you'll need to decide how your business will be...

How Is Child Custody Determined in Minnesota? A Guide for Parents

How Is Child Custody Determined in Minnesota? A Guide for Parents

There isn't a formula for deciding child custody, and there isn't a presumption that one parent should receive custody over the other.  One of the first questions parents ask during a divorce or other family law matter is, "Who will get custody of the children?"...

Do I Need a Trust or Is a Will Enough?

Do I Need a Trust or Is a Will Enough?

A will and a trust can both be effective estate planning tools—but they aren't interchangeable, and one isn't automatically better than the other.  One of the most common questions people ask when they begin estate planning is whether they need a trust or if a will is...

Buying a Business in Minnesota: What You Should Know Before You Sign

Buying a Business in Minnesota: What You Should Know Before You Sign

Buying a business is more than buying assets. You're buying the opportunities and the risks that come with them.  Buying an existing business can be an exciting opportunity. An established customer base, experienced employees, existing contracts, and immediate cash...

How Is Property Divided in a Minnesota Divorce?

How Is Property Divided in a Minnesota Divorce?

Most people assume everything is split 50/50 in a divorce. It’s not that simple.  That’s the expectation going in — and in some cases, it’s close to what happens. But Minnesota law doesn’t require an equal division of property during a divorce. It requires a division...

What Is a Real Estate Purchase Agreement?

What Is a Real Estate Purchase Agreement?

When you’re buying or selling property, the purchase agreement is often treated like a formality — something to sign once the price is agreed on.  It’s not.  The purchase agreement is the document that defines the entire real estate transaction. It outlines what’s...

What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Minnesota?

What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Minnesota?

Most people know they should have a will. Far fewer understand what actually happens if they don’t.  If you die without a will in Minnesota, you are considered to have died “intestate.” That means state law — not you — determines who receives your assets, who manages...

Klemp & Stanton